Shopping
If you are having problems buying everyday things, here are some simple steps to make shopping easier.
What you can do for yourself
Online shopping
Internet shopping is cheap, quick and easy and your shopping is delivered to your door.
We can help you to learn to use a computer and advice about online shopping is available. Some websites let you compare prices on goods, so you can get the best deal. Some give advice if the website is reputable. When you buy services, you have many of the same rights as when you buy goods. If you are unsure contact the Citizens Advice Bureau. You can also read our advice about choosing a service.
If you cannot use a standard computer (for example, you don't have the mobility to use a keyboard or a mouse), AbilityNet is a national charity that can help with adapted computers.
Going to the shops
Catalogues, high-street stores and specialist mobility shops sell a wide range of shopping trollies, walking sticks and other equipment to help you get around. If you're not sure which to choose, you can contact us and we can advise you.
If you have trouble getting around, you may be able to get a blue badge, which lets you park closer to the shops. Even if you don't drive yourself, you can still have one, so that anyone who gives you a lift can use the badge.
If you can't use public transport, Transport for Greater Manchester (TFGM) can arrange for travel vouchers and other ways of getting you out and about. There are also other options for accessible transport, such as community transport and ring and ride.
At the shops
Shopping at quiet times means fewer queues. If you are old enough,you could benefit from pensioner discounts at some stores. Even if you are not a pensioner, you can still use high street discount vouchers.
Whilst shopping, don't risk hurting yourself. Instead:
- Choose a trolley instead of a basket.
- Shop more often and carry less.
Some supermarkets have electric scooters for use within the shop. They also have staff who will help you upon request.
If you have some tips that help you with shopping, let us know and we can publish them here.
Mobility scooters and electric wheelchairs
Before you buy a mobility scooter, please consider:
- Will you feel confident using it?
- Where will you charge the batteries?
- Where will you store it?
- Will it fit through your front door if you want to take it inside?
- Will it be able to go everywhere you need to go (narrow passageways, steps, lifts etc)?
Contact us for independent advice before buying.
Where to find services
Use a search engine, such as Google, Bing, Yell etc . You can start by typing in 'domestic cleaning' or 'ironing' and your postcode. If you are unsure about using computers, visit your local library. You can also search in the phone book, Yellow Pages or Thomson Local.
We have searched the internet and produced a list of companies you can contact, at the bottom of this page. This is not a comprehensive list. It does not mean that we recommend these companies.
You can also contact any registered home care organisation, and ask them if they provide a shopping and cleaning service.
What we can do for you
If you want more advice or you feel that you need more support, use our online enquiry form or contact us. We may be able to assess your situation and discuss the type of support you need.
Downloadable documents
If you are unable to view documents of these types, our downloads page provides links to viewing software.
Who to contact
- Name
- Adult Social Care Contact Team
- Address
- Salford Civic Centre
Chorley Road
Swinton
Salford
M27 5AW
Map to this location - Telephone
- 0161 909 6517
- social.services@salford.gov.uk
- Minicom
- 0161 909 6527
This page was last updated on 10 February 2012
