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HOMECARE · STANDARD SERVICE PROCEDURE · PILOT DRAFT

Help a customer sit in a manual wheelchair

Quick steps

  1. Ask how they normally transfer. Ask what help they need and whether they want their caregiver involved.
  2. Check the wheelchair empty. Confirm seat fit and the model’s weight limit. Check the frame is open and locked, wheels and footrests are secure, and both parking brakes hold.
  3. Position the chair for their usual method. Place it alongside for a seated side transfer or at their usual angle for an established stand-pivot transfer.
  4. Prepare before they move. Use the level showroom floor. Lock both parking brakes and move both footplates clear. For a side transfer, move the near armrest only if required and permitted by the model.
  5. Let them transfer using their established technique. Keep feet on the floor as appropriate to their method and clear of the footplates. Stop if they are unsteady, uncomfortable or need unfamiliar assistance.
  6. Check seating before moving. Ask if they are comfortable. Restore and secure the armrest and footrests as applicable, then support their feet on the footplates before releasing the brakes for a supervised trial.

Before and after seating

An older customer seated next to a manual wheelchair before transfer, then comfortably seated in the wheelchair with a caregiver beside her.
Left · Before transfer. 1. Footrest area. Swing both footrests clear of the transfer path. 2. Parking brake area. Locate and engage both parking brakes on the actual wheelchair and check that they hold. Right · After transfer. Check comfort and support both feet before moving. This illustration shows the two seated positions.
Detailed guidance for staff and caregivers

Speak directly to the customer and ask before assisting. Use the exact model’s manual and move the display chair off the turf onto a clear, level floor. For a trial, stay nearby and start at walking pace. Apply the parking brakes again before the customer gets out.

Ask the caregiver who will operate the chair to show how they would park it, apply the brakes and move the footplates clear. Practise those controls with the chair empty when needed.

When to stop

If the usual transfer method is unclear, the chair fails a check, or the transfer requires lifting or support beyond staff training, demonstrate the chair empty. For an unclear or unfamiliar transfer, refer the customer to an occupational therapist or physiotherapist for assessment. This procedure covers manual wheelchairs.