Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I visit The William Merritt Centre?

The William Merritt Centre is a charity offering a free and impartial information,advice and assessment service on a wide range of equipment.

You will have the opportunity to find out which item of equipment is the best for you.

The Centre staff carrying out assessments are all qualified Occupational Therapists (OTs).

Will the advice, information or assessment cost me anything?

Most of the services that William Merritt provides are free. 

If you have referred yourself for a driving assessment it will cost £75.
If you have been referred by DVLA, you will not have to pay.
If you are requesting a car access outreach assessment it will cost £25.

Passenger transfer assessments (getting in and out of the car) and all other assessments are free.

Will I be able to buy what I need at The William Merritt Centre?

The William Merritt Centre does not sell anything. All the equipment on show at the Centre is on loan from suppliers and local retailers. 

You will be given a list of shops from whom you can buy what you need.

Will my nearest shop have what I need?

Retailers deal with different suppliers, but if you ask them to get a particular item (because it is the best for you), most retailers will.

Can I borrow an item of equipment to see if it is right for me?

None of the equipment on display is owned by The William Merritt Centre, and so we cannot lend it out.


If I ring to make an appointment for an assessment, how long will I have to wait?

At The Disabled Living Centre there may be a wait of  2 - 3 weeks for an assessment, but it is likely that you may have a shorter wait.

For the Mobility Service there may be a wait of 6-8 weeks for an assessment. We do have a cancellation list for clients who can come at short notice.


Where is The William Merritt Centre?

The William Merritt Centre is at St. Mary's Hospital on Green Hill Road in Armley, Leeds 12.


How can I get to The William Merritt Centre?

By bus: the number 16 bus

The number 72 and 508 which you can catch from the Bus Station (stand 15), Eastgate (stand G6), Headrow (stand H/Y9) and Westgate (stand Y14) stop on Stanningley Road and there is a walk of about 600 metres.