When taking care of a loved one at home, you will need to make important decisions. One of the most important is choosing the right medical equipment, such as a hospital bed instead of their regular bed. Profiling beds are designed to provide extra care and support for the elderly and those with limited mobility.
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View Hospital Beds Collection →You or your loved one, may be eligible to receive a hospital bed for free in the UK. However, it is important to carefully consider all of your options as you may encounter some limitations with free NHS Care and Support.
At Next Day Care Supplies, we supply a range of professional healthcare equipment as well as useful information and the latest updates on the care industry and care equipment.
This article will guide you through the ins and outs of how to get a hospital bed for free UK and some of the alternative options, helping you make an informed decision in the best interest of your loved one's care.
How to Get a Hospital Bed for Free in the UK
The NHS offer care and support that you can get for free, this includes free hospital beds. However, NHS hospital beds for home require you to meet certain criteria and an assessment may be needed, which can take some time.
Waiting Periods and Availability Constraints
The need for free hospital beds is often greater than what the NHS and social services can provide. This means you might have to wait for a bed, which could delay your medical care. Alternatively, specialist retailers have a variety of hospital beds and pressure-relieving mattresses that are ready to use, so you can get the best option quickly.
Standardised Options
While the NHS may provide free hospital beds, they may not meet the unique needs of each user. It's important to consider different types of profiling beds that can be adjusted for maximum comfort and support. Additionally, there are various types of pressure-relieving mattresses available to cater to individual needs.
This NHS social care and support article provides more information on how to get a hospital bed for free and other free home adaptations and equipment.
Types of Hospital Beds
Understanding the different types of hospital beds available can help you make the best choice for your loved one's needs. From standard electric profiling beds to specialised bariatric options, each type offers unique features designed for specific care requirements.
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Featured Hospital Beds for Home Care
Alerta Lomond Low Profiling Bed Oak
£808.75
Superior comfort and safety with ultra-low height adjustment (20-80cm), Trendelenburg tilting, and elegant oak finish. Perfect for reducing fall risks.
- 4-section electric profiling
- 250kg safe working load
- 3-year frame warranty
- Side rails included
Invacare Medley Ergo Profiling Bed
£615.00
Cost-effective solution from trusted Invacare brand. Features shear force reduction and full-length side rails for enhanced patient safety and comfort.
- 4-section mattress support
- 180kg safe working load
- Integral side rails included
- Ergonomically optimised
Alerta Lomond Bariatric Low Profiling Bed
£1,402.90
Specially designed for bariatric care with 120cm wide platform. Combines enhanced weight capacity with low profiling safety features.
- 120cm wide platform
- 250kg safe working load
- Reinforced construction
- Advanced tilt functions
Invacare Medley Ergo Low Profiling Bed
£640.65
Maximum safety with low height design to reduce fall risks. Ideal for elderly care with smooth height adjustment and modern design.
- Low profiling for fall prevention
- Fully adjustable positioning
- Side rails included
- Hospital-grade construction
Choosing a Specialist Who Supplies Hospital Beds
Time constraints and an individual's needs may mean you decide to choose a specialist supplier to purchase a Hospital Bed. Let's take a look at the advantages of selecting a high-quality hospital bed from a reliable provider.
Specialist retailers, like Next Day Care Supplies, have a wide selection of hospital beds, adjustable height profiling beds, pressure relieving mattresses and bed rails to suit different needs. Our customer service team is always available to assist you with your needs.
Adjustable Beds
Electric profiling beds offer comfort and convenience for both patients and caregivers. By allowing different parts of the bed to be raised or lowered, these hospital beds provide comfort and support. Our low profiling beds can be adjusted to sit closer to the ground, compared to standard hospital beds, reducing the risk of injury from falls for patients with mobility issues or those prone to rolling out of bed.
Pressure Relieving Mattresses
Our hospital bed mattresses provide ultimate comfort and protection for vulnerable patients. Our foam mattresses reduce the risk of pressure ulcers while our air mattresses provide essential protection for those at risk of developing pressure sores. Our range of pressure-relieving mattresses are from the trusted and high-quality brand, Invacare, so you can be sure you're getting the best care possible.
Foam Bed Bumpers and Bed Rails
Provide extra support with our range of foam bed bumpers and rails for enhanced safety and fall prevention.
Why Should I Choose a Specialist Retailer Over a Free Hospital Bed?
Trusted providers offer a variety of high-quality hospital beds that are specifically designed to meet the needs of different users. These beds provide excellent comfort, mobility, and cost-effective care, making them a better option than many free alternatives.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hospital Beds
How do I qualify for a free hospital bed from the NHS?
To qualify for a free hospital bed from the NHS, you typically need to be assessed by a healthcare professional such as an occupational therapist or social worker. They will evaluate your medical needs and mobility limitations. The assessment determines whether you meet the criteria for NHS-funded equipment. However, waiting times can vary, and availability may be limited depending on your local authority.
What is the difference between a profiling bed and a standard hospital bed?
A profiling bed offers multiple adjustable sections including the backrest, leg rest, and overall height, allowing for personalised positioning and comfort. Standard hospital beds may have limited adjustability. Profiling beds are particularly beneficial for patients who spend extended periods in bed, as they help reduce pressure sores, improve circulation, and make it easier for caregivers to provide care.
How long does it take to get a free hospital bed from the NHS?
Waiting times for a free NHS hospital bed can vary significantly depending on your location and the demand in your area. It can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. If you need a bed urgently, purchasing from a specialist retailer like Next Day Care Supplies ensures you receive the equipment quickly, often with next-day delivery available.
What mattress should I use with a profiling bed?
For optimal comfort and pressure relief, we recommend using a pressure-relieving mattress specifically designed for profiling beds. These mattresses are designed to work with the bed's adjustable sections and provide support for patients at risk of developing pressure sores. Options include foam mattresses for moderate risk and air mattresses for high-risk patients.
Are hospital beds suitable for home use?
Yes, modern hospital beds are designed to be suitable for home use. Many models, like our profiling beds, feature attractive wood finishes in oak or walnut that blend seamlessly with home décor. They provide the same medical benefits as hospital-grade equipment while maintaining a homely aesthetic.
Do hospital beds come with side rails for safety?
Most hospital beds include side rails as standard or offer them as optional extras. Side rails provide essential fall prevention and give users something to hold onto when repositioning themselves. Our beds come with full-length side rails that can be raised or lowered as needed for safety and convenience.
What is a low profiling bed and who needs one?
A low profiling bed can be adjusted to sit very close to the ground (as low as 20cm in some models), significantly reducing the risk of injury from falls. These beds are ideal for patients with dementia, those prone to falling out of bed, or anyone with limited mobility. The low height makes it safer for patients to get in and out of bed independently.
Can I get VAT exemption on hospital beds?
Yes, if you have a chronic illness or disability, you may be eligible for VAT exemption on hospital beds and related medical equipment. Contact our team to request a VAT Exempt Form and complete your order with VAT relief, making professional care equipment more affordable.
Need advice on adjustable profiling beds, pressure care mattresses, bed rails and foam bed bumpers? Contact our friendly and knowledgeable customer services team at Next Day Care Supplies.