Moving someone in bed

Changing position regularly can help someone to feel more comfortable and prevent pressure sores.

If you regularly lift or move someone, it's best to have someone demonstrate the correct way to avoid injury to yourself or the person you are looking after.

The district nurse, GP or occupational therapist can give information about suitable equipment.

You might find it helpful to ask about:

  • bed guards and rails
  • electric or adjustable 'hospital' beds to help someone sit up
  • ‘active’ air mattresses with air pockets that inflate and deflate to help prevent pressure ulcers

A Carer's assessment from social services can help you think about what support you might need.

Your local Citizen's Advice can guide what practical and financial support you can access. Please see our Service Directory for contact details of your local Citizens Advice Office.

The video below shows you how to use an electric bed as an aid, how to turn someone onto their side to wash them or to change bedding or pads, and how to adjust the pillows.

Recommended Resources

Marie Curie - Moving someone in bed

Published 26th October 2023

NHS - How to move, lift and handle someone else

Published 26th October 2023

Hospice in the Weald - Online guides

Published 26th October 2023

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Related Services

Adult Social Care
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Adult Social Care provides practical support to people to stay safe and well in Westminster, Kensington and Chelsea.

These services are usually provided in people's homes, care homes or in the community. Thre is also support for people who are caring for an adult family member or friend, access to personal care and home care services.

Carers Network
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Carers Network is an independent local charity reaching over 5,300 unpaid carers in the most isolated and deprived pockets of the City of Westminster, the London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham and the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea. We have been proudly supporting carers in central London since 1991.

There is help for new carers and a carer's assessment to discuss how to maintain your health and balance your caring responsibilities with other areas of your life. It may also help you get financial support.

Citizens Advice Kensington Chelsea
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Please contact by telephone.

Opening hours are Monday to Friday 9.00am to 5.00pm.

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26th October 2023

Moving someone in and out of bed

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