The Motability Scheme is a magnificent scheme from the Motability charity which has helped millions of disabled individuals to be independent and travel with ease. Established in 1977, the scheme enables those that receive a benefit due to their disability to use it to lease a car, mobility scooter or powered wheelchair. If you are unable to drive, you can still obtain a vehicle and select up to two people to drive on your behalf. Additionally, insurance, maintenance and breakdown cover are all included in the price.
Independence
Being able to travel independently is hugely important for everyone, but unfortunately, this can be a challenge for those with a disability. Public transportation can be unreliable and expensive, but the Motability Scheme provides an efficient, affordable and stress-free way to obtain mobility. This is much more than just a means of transportation, it is also a sense of freedom and independence.
Eligibility
To be eligible, you will need to receive one of the following disability benefits with a minimum of 12 months remaining:
- Higher Rate Mobility Component of Disability Living Allowance (HRMC DLA)
- Enhanced Rate Mobility Component of Personal Independence Payment (ERMC PIP)
- War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement (WPMS)
- Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP)
If you stop receiving benefits, you will need to return the vehicle.
How to Join
To join the scheme, you will need to first decide which type of vehicle is best suited to your needs. Adaptations can be made to vehicles and there are wheelchair accessible vehicles and other types available. Once you have decided, you will need to find a specialist dealer like Allied Mobility. There will be a specialist to help you pick out the right vehicle and talk through your options, plus you can take them out for a test drive to make sure that it is the right fit.
You will need to provide evidence that you are eligible, so be sure to bring along your passport, proof of address and a certificate of entitlement from the Department of Work and Pensions. You can then place your order, collect it/have it delivered a couple of weeks later and sign the lease. Everything is included in the package, allowing you to enjoy stress-free mobility and complete freedom. The lease runs for 3 years, after which you can return it and take out a lease on a newer vehicle.
The Motability Scheme helps over 600,000 disabled individuals and their families to enjoy everyday freedom.
