Best Rise and Recliner Chairs UK: How to Choose the Right One

A rise and recline chair (also called a riser recliner or lift chair) uses an electric motor to tip you gently forward so you can stand, and to lean back so you can rest with your feet up. For many older people it makes getting out of a chair safer and easier. This guide explains the types of chair on sale in the UK, how to choose the right size, and how to save money. If you are eligible, you will not pay VAT on a riser recliner.

Key points

• Choose between single motor chairs (back and footrest move together) and dual motor chairs (they move separately).
• The right size matters most. Your feet should rest flat on the floor and your back should be supported.
• If you are disabled or have a long-term illness, you should not be charged VAT on a riser recliner with a lift or tilt function.
• Your council can carry out a free needs assessment, often with an occupational therapist, who can advise on seating.
• Ask about battery backup, warranty, delivery, removal of your old chair and returns before you buy.

How rise and recline chairs work

A riser recliner looks like an armchair but sits on a motorised base. You control it with a handset. Pressing one button lifts and tilts the seat forward to help you stand. Another lowers you back into the seat and reclines the back. Many chairs also raise a footrest.

There are two main designs:

• Single motor: the back reclines and the footrest rises at the same time. These are simpler and usually cost less.
• Dual motor: the back and footrest move separately. You can raise your legs while sitting upright, or recline without lifting your legs. This gives more choice of positions.

Some chairs have more motors, or a "tilt-in-space" design that tips the whole seat back while keeping your hips and knees at the same angle. These are often used by people who spend long periods in their chair.

Key features to look for

• Smooth, quiet motors that start and stop gently.
• A simple handset with large, clear buttons. Some have backlit buttons for use at night.
• Battery backup, so you can return the chair to a safe position if the power goes off. Ask whether it is included.
• Good head, back and lumbar support. Some chairs have a "waterfall" back with separate cushions.
• A safe weight limit for the user. Check the maker's figure.
• Covers that are easy to clean. Some fabrics are water-resistant or wipe-clean.

These chairs can help people stay independent at home, and they are also used in care settings. If you look after someone, our guide for family and carers has more on support for you.

Types of chair available in the UK

We do not rank brands here. Many UK suppliers sell their own ranges, and the right chair depends on your body and your home. When comparing chairs, sort them into these groups:

• Standard single or dual motor chairs: the most common type, in a range of sizes.
• Made-to-measure chairs: built to your seat height, width and depth. These can suit people who are very tall, very short or have a particular condition.
• Petite and large chairs: for people outside the standard sizes.
• Bariatric chairs: built with a stronger frame and a higher weight limit.
• Chairs with heat or massage: some riser recliners include these extras. If massage is your main aim, see our massage chair guide.
• Tilt-in-space chairs: for people who need more postural support or pressure care.

Health benefits and things to think about

The main benefit is easier, safer standing. The chair takes some of the strain off your knees and hips as you get up. Many people also like being able to rest with their legs raised.

But a chair that does too much for you can mean you use your muscles less. If you have a health condition, recent surgery or swollen legs, ask your GP, physiotherapist or occupational therapist which positions are right for you. Keeping active also helps: see our guide to gentle exercises for older adults.

Getting the right size

A chair that is the wrong size can be uncomfortable and harder to get out of. Check three things while sitting in the chair:

• Seat height: your feet should rest flat on the floor, with your knees bent at about a right angle.
• Seat width: you should fit comfortably with a little space either side, but not so much that you slump to one side.
• Seat depth: there should be a small gap between the back of your knees and the front of the seat, and your back should touch the backrest.

Many suppliers will measure you at home. An occupational therapist can also advise. You can ask your council for a free needs assessment. If it finds you need equipment that costs less than £1,000, the council must provide it free.

Fabric and covers

You can usually choose between fabric, faux leather and leather. Think about:

• Cleaning: wipe-clean or water-resistant covers help if spills or continence are a concern.
• Comfort: fabric can feel warmer; leather can feel cooler and is easy to wipe.
• Hard wear: ask the supplier how well the fabric stands up to daily use.
• Removable covers for arms and headrest, which can be washed or replaced.

Budget and how to save money

Prices vary widely, depending on size, number of motors and whether the chair is made to measure. Compare several UK suppliers before you decide.

1. Check VAT relief. HMRC lists riser-recliner chairs with a lift or tilt function among the goods that can be sold VAT-free to an eligible disabled person. Plain recliners without a lift or tilt do not qualify.
2. Ask what is included: delivery, setting up, removing your old chair and the length of the warranty.
3. Get a written quote and do not feel pressured to buy on the day, especially after a home visit.
4. Check finance terms carefully if you are offered credit.
5. Look for grants. If you cannot get the help you need from the council or the NHS, a charity grant may help.

Setting up and looking after your chair

Place the chair on a level floor, with enough space behind and in front for it to recline and rise. Keep the power cable tidy so no one trips on it, and keep the space under the chair clear.

Follow the maker's care guide. Vacuum or brush the covers, wipe up spills quickly, and check the handset and cable for damage. If the chair makes new noises or moves unevenly, stop using it and contact the supplier.

Safety checks

1. Keep the area under the chair clear. Children, pets and objects can be caught in the mechanism.
2. Check the battery backup, if fitted, as the maker advises.
3. Use the chair within its weight limit.
4. Ask about safety features such as cut-outs that stop the motor if something blocks it.

Made-to-measure and special requirements

If a standard chair does not fit, ask about made-to-measure options. Suppliers may be able to change the seat height, width and depth, the back height, arm style, padding and headrest. Some offer heat or massage, or pressure-relieving cushions. Ask an occupational therapist if you are unsure what you need.

Frequently asked questions

Can I get VAT relief on a rise and recline chair?

Yes, if you are eligible. If you are disabled or have a long-term illness, you will not be charged VAT on products designed or adapted for your own personal or domestic use. HMRC includes riser-recliner chairs with a lift or tilt function. You do not qualify if you are elderly but not disabled, or only temporarily disabled. You will need to confirm in writing that you meet the conditions; the supplier may give you a form.

Can I get a riser recliner from the council or the NHS?

It depends on your needs and where you live. Ask your council's adult social services for a free needs assessment. Equipment you are assessed as needing is provided free, and equipment costing less than £1,000 must be provided free if the assessment finds you need it.

What happens to my chair in a power cut?

Without power, the motors will not work. Chairs with battery backup can be returned to an upright position. Ask the supplier whether your chair has this and how often the batteries need checking or replacing.

Do I need to tell my home insurer?

It is worth checking your contents cover includes the chair, especially if it was expensive.

Can two people share one chair?

They can, but a riser recliner works best when it is sized for one person. If two people of very different sizes share, the chair may not fit either of them well.

Sources

• Financial help if you're disabled: VAT relief for disabled people (GOV.UK)
• VAT Notice 701/7: VAT reliefs for disabled and older people (HMRC, GOV.UK)
• Household gadgets and equipment to make life easier (NHS)
• Care and support you can get for free (NHS)
• Apply for equipment for your home if you're disabled (GOV.UK)