Large numbers of private companies produce a very wide range of equipment available to disabled people to enable them to live and work as independently as possible. The best way of finding out what is available is to contact, where appropriate, any of the organisations listed here, and if possible to visit the excellent centres which hold examples of such equipment. Some of these centres have permanent displays where equipment can be seen and tried out. In some cases, arrangements can be made for short term or long term free loan. Occupational Therapists play a vital role in helping disabled people find out about, and understand, ways in which specialised equipment can help them retain their independence.