Choosing a Remploy Wheelchair? Here’s What You Need to Know

Finding the right wheelchair can change daily life for those with mobility issues. Remploy wheelchairs have been trusted across the UK for years, durable and affordable with no compromise on quality.

This guide takes you on Remploy’s journey from a post-war employment initiative to today’s RHealthcare brand, covering popular models, NHS access pathways and maintenance tips.

Popular Wheelchairs

The most popular Remploy models, now under RHealthcare, are:

Manual Wheelchair Range

Remploy 8TRL Self-propelled Wheelchair Our flagship model with 22-inch rear wheels for independent mobility. Key features:

• Detachable armrests with tray fixing points

• Swing-away height-adjustable footrests

• Hinged backrest adjustable up to 15 degrees

• 17-inch and 18-inch seat widths

• Steel frame construction

Remploy 9TRL Transit Wheelchair Designed for attendant propulsion with 12.5-inch rear wheels, lightweight at 14kg and foldable for easy transport and storage.

Paediatric Models 8TRLJ (self-propelled) and 9TRLJ (transit) models are designed for children’s mobility needs, same quality as adult models.

Modern Innovations

RHealthcare has added to the former Remploy range with new models:

Dash Lite 2 Available in self-propel and transit versions, modern and reliable like Remploy but more portable.

Electric Options Dash E-Fold and Dashi models are a big step forward, lightweight aluminium frames and lithium batteries for powered mobility.

Key Features and Engineering

Safety and Durability

Remploy/RHealthcare wheelchairs are engineered with user safety in mind:

• Steel frames to withstand daily use for years

• Many models meet ISO Standard 7176/19 crash test requirements

• Solid or puncture-free tyres to eliminate flat tyres

• Slip-resistant footplates for transfer safety

Adaptability

These wheelchairs have personalisation options to suit your needs:

• Adjustable backrests (up to 15 degrees) for posture support

• Removable armrests for side transfers

• Height-adjustable footrests for different leg lengths

• Optional accessories including elevating leg rests for medical needs

Technical Specifications

Standard adult models:

• Seat widths: 17 or 18 inches

• Seat height: 19 inches (47.5 cm)

• Back height: 17.8 inches (44.5 cm)

• Weight capacity: 127 kg (20 stone)

• Folded width: 11.6 inches (29 cm)

NHS Partnership and Healthcare Settings

Remploy/RHealthcare’s relationship with the NHS proves the reliability of these wheelchairs in professional healthcare environments. RHealthcare is a leading supplier of manual wheelchairs to NHS services, with some partnerships over 50 years old.

This long-standing connection shows the clinical suitability of these mobility aids. Many products have been developed with input from NHS therapists and engineers to meet real-world healthcare needs while being practical for daily use.

The company offers:

• Next day for standard models

• 7 day turnaround for prescription wheelchairs

• Full parts supply with diagrams

• Regular consultations with healthcare professionals

Getting a Remploy Wheelchair

Through the NHS

The NHS Wheelchair Service is the main route for many people getting mobility aids:

1. Referral - From your GP, physiotherapist, or a specialist therapist

2. Assessment - Evaluation of specific mobility needs

3. Recommendation - Based on individual requirements

The NHS voucher scheme offers flexibility:

• Standard option - NHS provides and maintains a specific wheelchair

• Independent option - Voucher towards a preferred model (user pays any difference)

• Partnership option - NHS ownership with user contribution for higher spec

Private Purchase

Remploy/RHealthcare wheelchairs are available through:

• Specialist mobility retailers

• Online healthcare equipment suppliers

• Direct order in some cases

Prices range from £230 for basic transit models to £700+ for advanced electric options. Most models are VAT exempt for eligible users making them more affordable. The standard warranty is 2 years reflecting the manufacturer’s confidence in durability.

Maintenance Essentials

Regular maintenance is key to safety and longevity:

Monthly checks:

• Tyre condition and pressure

• Brake function

• Frame cleaning

• Loose fasteners

Professional servicing signs:

• Unusual noises during movement

• Braking difficulties

• Visible damage to frame components

• Significant tyre or castor wear

RHealthcare’s full parts supply system helps extend wheelchair life through timely repairs and component replacement.

User Experiences

James from Leeds has had his 8TRL self-propelled wheelchair for 4 years: “What impresses me most is how solid it’s remained despite daily use. The adjustable backrest makes long days much more comfortable and I can manage most terrain independently.”Margaret from Glasgow uses the 9TRL transit: “My daughter can fold it up for car journeys which has been a lifesaver for my social life. For a standard wheelchair the comfort is surprisingly good but I add a cushion for longer trips.”

Comparing with Other Brands

Let's consider the price range: low price, medium price or Premium price of Remploy/RHealthcare.

Brand                                          Entry-Level                                  Mid-Range                                   Premium

Remploy/RHealthcare     £230-£300                                  £300-£600                                 £700+

Roma Medical                      £200-£250                                   £250-£450                                   £500+

Invacare                                  £250-£350                                    £350-£650                                   £800+

Drive DeVilbiss                   £180-£280                                    £280-£500                                  £600+

The advantage of Remploy/RHealthcare usually lies in their proven track record with healthcare professionals and exceptional stability rather than the lowest market price.