The invention provides a lifting device (1) for transfer of a paraplegic between seated positions. A post (3) extends from a wheeled base (2) and movably supports a head (5) for upwards and downwards movement. A lifting arm arrangement (7) is pivotably secured to the head (5). The head (5) is also rotatable about the post (3) and the base (2) movable between an expanded stabilizing condition and a retracted condition. The latter condition allows the lifting device (1) to fit through a standard width doorway. Movement of the base (2) between these conditions is effected by pivoting of the lifting arm arrangement (7) into and out of a lateral supporting position. The base (2) preferably includes five legs (4) extending substantially radially from the post (3) with two of the legs (4) foldable towards adjacent legs (4). The head (5) includes an actuator in the form of a rotatable handle (6a) provided for movement relative to the post (3). The handle (6a) is fitted to either of two protrusions for rotation of the head (5) or for raising and lowering the head (5) on the post (3). The handle (6a) is accessible to a person supported by the lifting arm (7.1) so that the lifting device (1) can be used without any assistance.