Full list of people who automatically qualify for a car in trouble-hit motability scheme

Yahoo

30-03-2025

Navigating day-to-day travel can be a significant financial burden for those with limited mobility.
From the upkeep of personal vehicles to the recurrent costs of taxis, expenses can quickly add up for individuals reliant on these services due to disability.
But there's hope in the form of the Motability Scheme – a programme dedicated to assisting those with disabilities and mobility issues. The scheme offers the option to lease cars, power wheelchairs, or scooters to make life a bit easier.
Guidance from Citizens Advice sheds light on eligibility and the application process for residents of England, noting that different regulations may apply across the UK.
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Their insights include: "If you receive a benefit because you have a disability or illness that makes it hard for you to get around, you can use it to pay for a vehicle from a charity called Motability. You can choose from lots of different vehicles, for example cars, mobility scooters or powered wheelchairs."
They added a cautionary note: "You'll only be paying for the lease of the vehicle - it won't belong to you. If you stop receiving your benefit, you'll have to return it."
The distinct groups have automatic entitlement:
- Recipients of the higher rate of the mobility component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- Those awarded the enhanced rate of the mobility component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Beneficiaries of Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP) or War Pensioners' Mobility Supplement.
- Individuals entitled to the enhanced rate of the mobility component of Adult Disability Payment
- People granted the higher rate of the mobility component of Child Disability Payment
The advisory states: "When you apply for a Motability vehicle, you must have at least 12 months left before your benefit ends - check your benefit decision letter if you're not sure. You can't apply for a Motability vehicle if you're getting DLA and the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has sent you a letter saying you need to apply for PIP. You won't be affected if you already have a Motability vehicle."
It goes on to say: "If you don't drive, you can still get a Motability vehicle and choose someone else to drive it. You can choose up to 2 people to drive on your behalf."
For those receiving a disability or illness benefit that affects mobility, this funding can be used to acquire a vehicle through the charity known as Motability. There is a variety of vehicles to select from, including cars, mobility scooters, and powered wheelchairs.
Participants in the scheme essentially lease the vehicle, so it doesn't become their property. When the benefit period expires, the vehicle must be surrendered.
The benefit payment is automatically directed to the Motability Scheme each month to cover the lease costs. The portion of the benefit allocated for the vehicle depends on the model chosen.
In some cases, an additional upfront cost might be necessary for pricier vehicle options. Depending on personal circumstances, there may be assistance available for this initial outlay.
For more details, the Motability website is the place to look.
In addition to your vehicle, the package includes:
insurance, which covers tyre and windscreen replacement
breakdown cover
vehicle tax
servicing and maintenance
adaptations if required - learn about how you can modify your vehicle
The Motability Scheme is not means-tested, so it's not influenced by your income, savings, or other financial situations.