Maclaren Major ( or similar )

SwampDuck_2

We have a 4 1/2 year old boy who has Downs Syndrome and now find ourselves in need of a larger pushchair as the only thing his physiotherapist can issue is a wheelchair.

I would be grateful if I could get some feedback from the forum as to which model would be best for my son who just needs it for transportation rather than posture so a general buggy rather than a specialised one is what we require, my wife has been trying to find makes and models to look at but all she seems to like is the Maclaren Major which is a mere £300

We would also be interested in second hand, but they seem to be £180 for that option also.

Any help would be appreciated

tronlegacy

We had a mclaren major for a few years and it was nice and light,folded great,was just like a `normal` buggy.The mclaren major cannot be used for transportation in a car(child sitting in it in car).
We had to use this as my sons wheelchair wouldnt fit in our car and as it was only for shopping trips it was ideal.
Ours lasted for years and was still in great condition when i sold it.Fantastic buggy and lasted well.
Other similar type buggys are very expensive. I would definately recommend the mclaren major.

tronlegacy

https://www.activateforkids.co.uk is a website which does buggys and wheelchairs for disabled kids.They have some nice equipment but are expensive.

wiccanlou

Have you spoken to WhizzKidz they may be able to help you with the costs.

kingfisherblue

My son also has DS and used a Major buggy for several years. Although the physiotherapy department might not be able to issue a buggy to you, you can ask your GP to refer you to the Wheelchair Assessment Unit in your area. Hopefully you will then be able to get a buggy with no cost to yourselves. In addition, the buggy will then be serviced annually. It usually has to be returned when you no longer use it. Having said that, my son has had a wheelchair since he was 8 and we still have his buggy - my friend was using it for her daughter until recently.

SwampDuck_2

kingfisherblue wrote: »

My son also has DS and used a Major buggy for several years. Although the physiotherapy department might not be able to issue a buggy to you, you can ask your GP to refer you to the Wheelchair Assessment Unit in your area. Hopefully you will then be able to get a buggy with no cost to yourselves. In addition, the buggy will then be serviced annually. It usually has to be returned when you no longer use it. Having said that, my son has had a wheelchair since he was 8 and we still have his buggy - my friend was using it for her daughter until recently.

Wouldnt be interested in selling it by any chance ? they seem very scarce 2nd hand.

SwampDuck_2

By the way, thanks for all replies thus far, I would appreciate feedback about other makes that people may be using, like I said, its only the Maclaren she has really fancied but we dont know exactly who does cater for older/heavier children therefore we have not seen the design of them. Tried googling but it is a nightmare to actually find anything unless looking for a specific item, loads of links to non related stuff.

kingfisherblue

SwampDuck wrote: »

Wouldnt be interested in selling it by any chance ? they seem very scarce 2nd hand.

I'm not sure of it has a footplate, but you are welcome to it if you can collect it. I don't mind meeting partway, depending on how far it is. I'm in the North West.

24skins

I don't know if there is a policy in your local PCT to only supply wheelchairs but, as kingfisher says, you should be able to get a Major Buggy via Wheelchair Services - my son undergoes a review by an Occupational Therapist who then puts in the recommendation to Mobility and Rehabilitation Services who the provide the buggy.

I struggle to lift/fold a wheelchair due to nerve damage in my arm & would be screwed if our PCT only provided wheelchairs.

SwampDuck_2

Thanks all parchase made ......... Maclaren Major

Lizk3kids

I am also looking for a major for my daughter who is six but can not stretch to the prices for new looked into hiring long term but also costly help any advice needed I am in Manchester