1st Choice Stairlifts in the UK: Costs, Reviews & Models

• The starting cost of 1st choice stairlifts is from  £2,000 for straight models and  £5,000 for curved options.
• 1st choice stairlift models include straight, curved, and outdoor options, catering to diverse mobility needs.
• The company is endorsed as a Which? Trusted Trader and a proud member of the British Healthcare Trades Association, ensuring high standards and reliability.

1st Choice Stairlifts, a UK family-run company with 20+ years of experience, offers different types of stair lifts, home lifts, and wheelchair lifts. This guide covers essential information about 1st Choice stairlifts, including models, prices, and reviews to help you make an informed decision.

Choosing the right stairlift can be challenging, with so many options and technical details to consider. A professional consultation cuts through the research hassle and helps find the right choice for your needs and home. Click below for up to 4 free, non-binding quotes from our network of trusted UK stairlift suppliers and installers, and compare effortlessly.

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1st Choice stairlift model range

1st Choice stairlift models include simple straight stairlifts, curved models and outdoor options. They source these stairlifts from multiple stairlift companies and brands for a variety of choices.

Straight stairlifts

Straight stairlifts in the UK by 1st Choice offer secure, accessible mobility for straight staircases, available in new, reconditioned, and rental options to fit varied budgets.

• Foldaway design: Keeps stairs accessible by folding armrests, seat, and footrest.
• Swivel seat & joystick: Enables safe, easy entry and exit for independent use.
• Battery backup: Operates during power cuts, essential for reliability.
• Safety sensors: Automatically stop for obstacles, enhancing safety.

Top models like the Access HomeGlide and Platinum Ergo feature padded seats, high weight capacity, and fit staircases as narrow as 740mm, providing reliable, comfortable mobility for users with reduced mobility.

Curved stairlifts

Curved stairlifts in the UK, by 1st Choice, offer dependable mobility for staircases with bends, turns, or spirals. Available in new, reconditioned, and rental options, they suit different budgets and needs.

• Custom rail fit: Precision-made rails ensure smooth travel on curved stairs.
• Swivel seat & joystick: Safe, easy entry and exit for users prioritising independence.
• Battery backup: Operates during power cuts, ideal for areas prone to outages.
• Safety sensors: Detect obstacles, pausing automatically for safety.

Top models like the Platinum Curve and Otolift Modul-Air feature ergonomic, padded seats and support up to 25 stone (160 kg), providing reliable and comfortable mobility on complex staircases.

Outdoor stairlifts

1st Choice outdoor stairlifts provide secure, weatherproof mobility for external stairs, perfect for maintaining independence in outdoor spaces.

• Weatherproof construction: Rust-resistant materials and protective coatings withstand temperatures from -15°C to +50°C.
• Waterproof cover: Shields the lift from rain, ensuring reliable operation throughout the year.
• Easy controls & safety features: Offers smooth operation and safety features on par with indoor models.

Top models like the Access HomeGlide Outdoor and Handicare 4000 deliver dependable access to patios, gardens, and other outdoor areas, allowing users to navigate safely in any weather.

Wheelchair stairlifts

Wheelchair stairlifts, also known as platform lifts, offer secure stair navigation for wheelchair and scooter users without needing to transfer from their chair.

• Full accessibility for wheelchair users: Provides easy movement between floors without requiring transfers.
• Versatile use: Suitable for both indoor and outdoor staircases, allowing access throughout the property.
• Customisable options: Available in models for straight and curved stairs as well as vertical platform lifts for multi-level access.

1st Choice offers a range of wheelchair platform lifts from Wessex and Access, with options for both indoor and outdoor installation to meet diverse mobility needs.

Reconditioned stairlifts

Reconditioned stairlifts by 1st Choice offer a budget-friendly, quality option for both straight and curved staircases.

• Affordable Quality: Refurbished and rigorously safety-tested, providing reliable performance at a lower price.
• Eco-Friendly Choice: Ideal for those seeking sustainable options, reusing equipment to reduce waste.
• 1-Year Warranty: Each model comes with a 1-year warranty for added peace of mind.

Popular reconditioned models include the Handicare 2000, Access Flow 2, Handicare 950, HomeGlide, and HomeGlide Extra, delivering dependable mobility at a fraction of the cost of new stairlifts.

Not sure which stairlift best suits your staircase? Let our trusted network of suppliers and installers guide you. Easily compare options and prices to find the best fit for your home and budget—without hours of research.

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1st Choice Stairlifts cost in the UK

The average cost of 1st Choice stairlifts in the UK starts at £2,000 for new straight models, with installation included. Curved stairlifts begin at £5,000. Reconditioned straight stairlifts start from £1,200, while curved options start at £4,000. 1st Choice’s straight stairlift rental cost starts at £350 upfront plus £50 per month, and curved stairlift rentals from £1,850 upfront plus £100 per month. Installation for rentals is included in the upfront fee.

Cost factors for 1st Choice stairlifts

Several elements can influence the overall stairlift cost in the UK when choosing a 1st Choice model:

• Installation requirements: Costs vary based on staircase shape (straight, curved, outdoor) and other setup needs.
• Optional upgrades: Extras like swivel seats (£200) and custom upholstery (£100) add to the base cost.
• Maintenance plans: Optional contracts cover annual servicing and 24/7 support, with standard upkeep costing £100–£200 yearly.
• Warranty coverage: New stairlifts come with a 24-month warranty, while reconditioned models include 12 months. Extended warranties may also be available.

Funding and grants

For budget-conscious buyers, stairlift grants in the UK, like the Disabled Facilities Grants (DGF), can help cover part of the stairlift cost. Note that grants are means-tested, requiring income details and an assessment by an Occupational Therapist.

Can you get a stairlift on the NHS? Not directly. But the NHS can assess your eligibility for funding. Approval wait times for funding often range from 6 to 18 months, with some areas experiencing longer delays due to high demand.

For quicker options, it’s always helpful to consult a stairlift supplier directly. Suppliers can guide you to suitable models, often working within your budget, providing tailored stairlift quotes, and saving you tons of research hours.

To streamline your search, connect with our network of trusted UK stairlift providers to compare options and find the best deal. Request up to 4 free, non-binding quotes now. Click below to get started.

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First Choice stairlift pros and cons

1st Choice Stairlifts offers a broad range of reliable stairlift models backed by solid customer service and extensive experience. While they provide custom solutions for various needs, costs for bespoke options and upgrades can be higher, and their services are limited to certain areas in the UK.

Pros

• Flexible product range: 1st Choice offers straight, curved, and outdoor lifts from multiple manufacturers, accommodating nearly all staircase types and configurations.
• Experienced team: With over 20 years of experience and recognition as a Which? Trusted Trader, the team brings extensive expertise to each project.
• Quick installation and response times: Known for efficient stairlift installation, many customers report fast service, sometimes within days of initial contact.
• 24/7 support: Provides year-round emergency repair and support for added peace of mind.
• Problem-solving expertise: The team is praised for finding solutions to challenging staircase configurations that other providers could not accommodate.

Cons

• Potential for sales pressure: Some customers have reported feeling high-pressure sales tactics, which may be off-putting for those looking to explore options comfortably.
• Limited region coverage: Based in Wiltshire, 1st Choice primarily serves southern England, limiting access for customers in other regions.
• Pricing transparency: Like many stairlift providers, exact pricing requires a home assessment, which can make it challenging for customers to compare options upfront.
• Occasional communication issues: A few customers noted delays or miscommunication during the process, though these instances appear to be isolated.

1st Choice Stairlifts reviews

When it comes to finding a reliable stairlift provider, 1st Choice Stairlifts reviews highlight strong customer satisfaction and trust. Here’s a look at what people are saying:

• Exceptional service and quality: With a 4.9 out of 5 rating on the Trust Index, 1st Choice Stairlifts reviews reflect a commitment to quality, with all reviewers recommending their services. This high rating underscores their consistent reliability and customer satisfaction.
• Supportive and professional team: Customers frequently mention the friendly, efficient team that makes the installation process seamless. One reviewer noted, “From my first contact with 1st Choice Stairlifts until the completion of the installation this morning, this company has given me 5-star treatment throughout.”
• Responsive in urgent situations: Many 1st Choice stairlift reviews also praise the company’s quick response during emergencies. As one customer shared, “I called the office and within less than 5 minutes, Pete called me and talked me through what to do.” This prompt attention highlights their dedication to customer peace of mind.

1st Choice Stairlifts could improve in certain areas. According to reviews, they should focus on clearer communication during installation, paying more attention to detail, and ensuring the right fit for staircases. Improving post-installation support would also be beneficial. Overall, 1st Choice Stairlifts is a trusted provider but can improve certain aspects of customer care.

How does 1st Choice compare to other brands?

Comparing 1st Choice Stairlifts with other well-known brands helps you choose the best stairlift for your home. Below is a comparison of 1st Choice Stairlifts with brands like Stannah, Platinum, Bison, Dolphin stairlifts, Age UK, Acorn, Handicare, and Brooks stairlifts.

When comparing stairlift brands, each offers unique advantages in terms of customisation and affordability:

• Customisation and affordability: While Platinum stairlifts provide extensive customisation and higher weight capacity, they often come at a premium. In contrast, 1st Choice stairlifts, Dolphin stairlifts, and Bison stairlifts focus on affordability, frequently offering reconditioned models for budget-conscious buyers.
• Specialised options: Age UK stairlifts cater to seniors with straightforward, cost-effective designs, making them a practical choice for many. Stannah stairlifts, meanwhile, offer a premium range with advanced features. For those seeking an affordable and easy-to-install solution, Acorn stairlifts and Handicare stairlifts are recognised for their user-friendly setups and competitive pricing.

Your budget and individual requirements will determine which of the brands you should stairlifts you choose.

Should I get a 1st Choice stairlift?

If you’re in southern England, 1st Choice Stairlifts is a well-regarded option, known for quality models tailored to diverse needs. For those outside this region, however, finding a provider that fits both your home layout and budget can be time-intensive.

By connecting with our network of trusted UK-wide stairlift providers, you’ll receive up to 4 free, no-obligation quotes. This quick comparison saves hours of research, offering a wider range of choices so you can confidently select the best option. Click below to get started.

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