How should SEND schools select slings and straps for mixed mobility needs?

SEND schools often support pupils with a wide range of mobility needs, from those who can stand and participate in transfers to those who require full-body support from a hoist. Selecting the right sling or transfer aid starts with an individual moving and handling assessment, taking into account the pupil’s abilities, posture, comfort, the transfer being carried out and the equipment available.

Having a suitable range of moving and handling equipment can help schools support pupils safely and consistently throughout the day. Rather than relying on one sling type for everyone, schools should match the equipment to each pupil’s needs and review it when those needs change.

Why do SEND schools need different sling types?

Mobility can vary considerably between pupils, and an individual’s abilities may also change depending on fatigue, health, pain or the activity being undertaken.

One pupil may be able to stand with support, while another may need a mobile hoist for every transfer. Some pupils require additional head and trunk support, while others can maintain their position with a less supportive sling.

Using equipment that does not provide the right level of support can increase the risk of discomfort, slipping or falling. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) advises that sling selection should consider the person, the task, the environment and the compatibility of the equipment.

For schools, this means considering:

• Mobility and weight-bearing ability: Can the pupil stand or participate in the transfer safely?

• Postural support: Do they need support for their head, trunk, pelvis or legs?

• Communication and understanding: Can they understand instructions, communicate discomfort or actively participate?

• Transfer requirements: Is the pupil moving between a wheelchair, classroom chair, changing bench, bed or toilet?

• Comfort and dignity: Does the equipment support the pupil without unnecessary discomfort or restriction?

• Environment: Is there sufficient room to position and operate the equipment safely?

These factors help determine whether a sling, standing aid or another transfer solution is appropriate.

Which slings and transfer aids should schools consider?

The following equipment types serve different purposes. Not every option will be suitable for every pupil, and selection should follow an assessment.

1. Full-support slings for pupils who need extensive assistance

Full-support slings are designed to support a person’s body during a hoisted transfer. Depending on the model, they may provide support around the head, trunk, pelvis and thighs.

They may be appropriate for pupils who cannot safely maintain their sitting position or participate sufficiently in a transfer without extensive support.

When selecting a full-support sling, schools should consider:

• The amount of head and trunk support required.

• The pupil’s body shape, measurements and weight.

• The intended transfer and positioning requirements.

• Whether the sling can be used with the school’s specific hoist.

• Whether the design is suitable for the pupil’s seating and personal care arrangements.

A full-support sling should be selected for the support it provides, not simply because it is considered a general-purpose option.

2. Toileting slings for personal care

Toileting slings are designed to provide access for personal care during a hoisted transfer. Their more open design can make clothing management easier than with some full-support slings.

However, this design generally provides less support. The HSE specifically warns that toileting slings offer limited support and should only be used for their intended purpose.

For pupils with mixed mobility needs, schools should check whether the individual can be safely supported by the particular toileting sling. Pupils who require greater postural support may need another assessed solution.

3. In-situ slings for pupils who need frequent transfers

Some in-situ slings are designed to remain beneath the pupil while they are seated or positioned, where permitted by the manufacturer’s instructions and the individual’s care plan.

They may help reduce repeated sling application for pupils who need frequent hoisted transfers. The correct design is particularly important for pupils who spend extended periods in specialist seating.

Schools should check whether the sling is intended for continuous use, whether it is suitable for the pupil’s seating system and whether it allows the required personal care. Not all in-situ slings are suitable for toileting.

4. Standing aids and transfer belts for pupils who can participate

Some pupils can bear weight and participate in transfers but still need assistance with balance or stability. Depending on their assessed abilities, a standing aid or suitable transfer aid may be appropriate.

A handling belt may assist a person who can support their own weight, but it is not a lifting device. HSE guidance distinguishes between belts used to assist standing and equipment designed to lift a person.

The school should establish whether the pupil can safely participate, what assistance is required and whether the chosen equipment is appropriate for the task. A pupil should not be expected to stand or bear weight beyond their assessed ability.

How should schools assess pupils with different mobility needs?

A school-wide equipment review can help identify gaps, but each pupil who requires assistance should have an individual moving and handling assessment.

Consider the pupil’s current abilities

The assessment should establish what the pupil can do independently, what assistance they need and how consistently they can participate. It should consider factors such as fatigue, muscle tone, pain, balance, posture and communication.

A pupil who can stand during one activity may still need a hoist for another transfer. Equipment should reflect the actual task rather than a general label such as “mobile” or “non-mobile”.

Match the equipment to each transfer

The same pupil may need different arrangements for different activities. For example, transferring from a wheelchair to a changing bench may involve different positioning and support requirements from moving onto a toilet.

The plan should specify the appropriate equipment, sling size and type, attachments, techniques and number of staff required.

Involve the right professionals

Occupational therapists, physiotherapists and competent moving and handling assessors can help schools evaluate a pupil’s needs and determine suitable equipment. Where appropriate, the pupil and their family should also be involved in decisions.

How can schools manage slings and straps safely?

Selecting the correct equipment is only part of the process. Schools also need consistent systems for checking, using and maintaining it.

Check compatibility before use

A sling should not be used with a hoist simply because the attachments appear to fit. The combination must be confirmed as compatible in accordance with the manufacturers’ instructions, with any exceptional arrangements assessed and documented by a qualified person.

The MHRA issued a national patient safety alert on 16 September 2026 highlighting the risk of serious harm from falls involving hoists and slings. Its recommendations include documenting compatible combinations, strengthening pre-use checks and ensuring staff are competent in the equipment they use.

Use the correct attachments and straps

Staff should follow the specified attachment configuration and use only approved accessories. They should never improvise with additional belts or alter the prescribed sling arrangement.

Carry out pre-use checks

Before each transfer, staff should check the sling, hoist and attachments for damage, missing components and incorrect connections. For loop-type attachments, the MHRA’s 2026 alert recommends pausing after taking up the initial load, before fully lifting the pupil, to confirm that all attachment points are secure.

Keep training and records up to date

Staff need training and competency checks relevant to the equipment they use. Schools should also maintain appropriate servicing, inspection and examination records, and remove defective equipment from use.

When should a school review its sling provision?

Consider reviewing your current equipment if:

• Pupils’ mobility, weight, posture or support requirements have changed.

• Staff are using different sling brands or models without clear compatibility records.

• The school does not have the sling types or sizes specified in individual plans.

• Staff are unsure which sling or attachment configuration to use.

• Equipment is damaged, difficult to position or no longer suitable.

• New pupils join the school or the learning environment changes.

Regular reviews can help schools identify gaps before they affect day-to-day transfers.

How Medaco can support your SEND school

Medaco supplies moving and handling equipment for schools and care settings, helping organisations explore equipment options that meet the needs of the people they support.

Whether you’re equipping a new SEND classroom, reviewing existing slings or planning for pupils with different mobility requirements, our team can help you discuss your equipment needs alongside servicing and installation requirements.

Need help reviewing your SEND school’s moving and handling equipment? Contact Medaco to discuss your requirements and explore suitable solutions.