This invention relates to lifting mechanisms. In particular this invention relates to lifting mechanisms for use in healthcare equipment such as beds. A lifting assembly comprises a telescopic post assembly including a first tubular member, a second tubular member slidingly engaged with the first tubular member, and a third tubular member slidingly engaged with the second tubular member, the first, second and third tubular members being coaxial； an actuator configured to move the second tubular member axially with respect to the first tubular member； and a pulley mechanism comprising a first wheel rotatably mounted at a first end of the second tubular member； a second wheel rotatably mounted at a second end of the second tubular member； a first length of cable having a first end fixed to the first tubular member and a second end fixed to the third tubular member, the first length of cable being engaged with the first wheel； and a second length of cable having a first end fixed to the first tubular member and a second end fixed to the third tubular member, the second length of cable being engaged with the second wheel, wherein the pulley mechanism is arranged such that the movement of the third tubular member relative to the first tubular member is at a greater speed than the movement of the second tubular member relative to the first tubular member.
