Posted By Ali We have a problem in that, occasionally, when the lifts are out of service in out rented properties we have to move the elderly & frail up/down flights of steps, which presents manual handling issues. Does anyone know of any mechanical aids we can use ? It would be over a few days at a time, but we do own several thousand properties too.

Posted By jackw. Hi, there are a number of aides at various prices. For taking people down stairs an evac chair is probably the cheapest option but still costs around £700 and staff will require training. Taking them upstairs is more difficult. There are a number of mechanical/electrical pieces of equipment e.g. scalomobile but these are fairly expensive. Your local health trust or Social Work Department Occupational Therapist may be able to advise you further. cheers.