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Holidays & Leisure:Frequently Asked Questions
Through our helpline we receive enquiries spanning a wide range of different topics. Here is a selection of those most asked:
How can I get an adaptation made to my house?
Housing adaptations can reduce the risk of accidents at home and promote independence.
If you are disabled, or someone in your home is disabled, you may get help with a wide range of adaptations to your home. Examples of adaptations include:
- Replacing a bath with a level access shower.
- Making it easier to get into and out of the house by widening doors or making a ramp.
- Fitting lower worktops in a kitchen.
Smaller adaptions can also be made, such as:
- Fitting a grab rail
- Provision of a shower chair
In most cases, as a starting point you should contact your local Social Work Department and ask for an Assessment of Needs, which is usually done by an Occupational Therapist (O.T.).
For further information see our Disabled Home Adaptations Information Guide.
Am I eligible for VAT relief on disability equipment?
In general, disabled people do not have to pay VAT on goods and services that are designed/ or adapted solely for use by disabled people. These goods and services are often called ‘zero-rated’ or ‘eligible for VAT relief’.
The majority of suppliers will know if their product has been specifically designed to help disabled people. They will offer their products free of VAT at the point of sale.
You’ll need to confirm in writing that you meet these conditions. Your supplier may give you a form for this.
Most suppliers will use the Notice 701/7 VAT relief for disabled people form.
For further information see our VAT Exemption for Disabled Goods Information Guide or call our helpline on 0300 323 9961.
I am going on holiday, how do I hire a mobility scooter or wheel chair when I am there?
If you are staying within the UK you can search for a Shop Mobility local to where you are going. Another option would be to search for local mobility equipment providers.
The Mobility Equipment Hire Direct is a one stop shop to hire a wide range of mobility equipment in a variety of destinations from anywhere in the world using your chosen currency and in your chosen language.
You can search for local providers and shop mobility using our Scottish Disability Directory or contact us and one of our information workers can help you search.
Helpline: 0300 323 9961
For further information on hiring equipment away from home check out our Accessible Holidays Information Guide
I’m struggling getting in and out of my bath, is there any support that I can get?
Often we get individuals phoning because they are struggling with getting in and out of their bath. The first step would be to contact your local social work department to arrange an Assessment of Needs. You might be eligible to get an adaptation, such as a walk in shower, made to your bathroom. For more information see our Assessment of Needs Information Guide.
Holidays & Leisure:Search for Local Organisations
Our quick search tool can connect you to over 3000 service providers, suppliers and organisations supporting people across Scotland. To find support near you, simply enter your search term and select your local authority.
| Organisation | Description |
|---|---|
| Hearing and Sight Care | Meeting the needs of hard-of-hearing, visually impaired, deaf and blind and deafblind people in Caithness and North Sutherland |
| Hearing Dogs for Deaf People | Supplier of hearing dogs to deaf people |
| Heart n Soul | Arts organisation led by people with learning difficulties |
| Hearts & Minds | Use the performing arts to encourage communication, interaction and laughter |
| Helping Hand Company Ledbury (The) | Supply and manufacture aids for daily living |
| Here to Help Mobility Company Ltd | Provide scooters for sale or contract hire all across Scotland |
| Highland Council – Social Work Department Respite Care Services | Respite care services in Highland |
| Highland Disability Sport | Highland Disability Sport organise a variety of events for disabled people |
| Highland Disabled Ramblers | Rambling group for disabled people and their friends based around the Inverness area |
| Highland Safaris | Provide safaris and other activities in the Highlands of Scotland for all ages and abilities |
