Online mobility aids store with home demos

Older people, their families and carers who prefer to buy from home, and sometimes care providers.

Margin on each sale, delivery or set-up fees, and optional hire of a few popular items.

• Clear, patient phone and email communication
• Basic website and online shop management
• Reliable driving and handling bulky items

• Distance selling rules and refunds, so check consumer rights guidance from Trading Standards or Citizens Advice
• Public liability and product liability insurance, and cover for stock and your vehicle
• Do not give clinical advice. Point people to their GP or occupational therapist when needed
• Check VAT treatment of products for disabled customers with HMRC
• Storing stock at home may need permission from your landlord or mortgage lender
• Manual handling of heavy items, so plan lifting safely

Startup costs are typically around £2,000 to £10,000, depending on the range of products you stock, your website and your delivery set-up. These are estimates, and some items may be sent direct from suppliers.

Check distance selling and refund rules using consumer rights guidance from Trading Standards or Citizens Advice, and VAT treatment with HMRC. Do not give clinical advice, and check insurance for liability, stock and your vehicle.

Monthly revenue is typically around £1,000 to £8,000, depending on your product range, pricing and how many home visits you make. The idea is estimated to need from about 12 hours a week.