The Motability Scheme offers an affordable way for disabled people to lease a new car, wheelchair-accessible vehicle, scooter or powered wheelchair.
It is a foundation of independence for disabled people who receive qualifying mobility allowances from the Government.
Since it began in 1978, the Motability Scheme has helped millions of disabled people and their families to travel for work, education, healthcare and more.
The Motability Foundation oversees the delivery of the Motability Scheme by Motability Operations. Together, we make sure that it provides the best choice, value for money and customer service – and is sustainable for generations to come.
The Motability Foundation then provides grants to people who are least able to afford the vehicle they need , focusing on where we can have the greatest impact.
Who can join the Motability Scheme?
Disabled people who receive any of the following government benefits can choose to use their allowance to lease a Motability Scheme vehicle.
- Enhanced rate mobility part of Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Higher rate mobility part of Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- Higher rate mobility part of Scottish Adult Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- Enhanced rate mobility part of Adult Disability Payment (Scotland)
- Higher rate mobility component of Child Disability Payment (Scotland)
- War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement (WPMS)
- Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP)
Carers and parents can drive on behalf of the disabled person.
This means that parents of children aged three and above, and disabled people who don’t drive can join the Scheme. The vehicle must be used by, or for the benefit of, the disabled person.
How does the Motability Scheme work?
You can use your higher rate mobility allowance to pay for the lease of a vehicle through the Motability Scheme. Insurance, breakdown cover, servicing and maintenance are all included in the price. If the car costs more than your allowance, you can pay an ‘Advance Payment’ to make up to difference.
How do Motability Foundation grants work?
The Motability Foundation provides a small number of means-tested grants to people who most need financial support to get the vehicle they need.
This can include funding towards Advance Payments for cars, wheelchair accessible vehicles, and adaptations for drivers and passengers. Grants are only available for certain vehicles which are most cost-effective for the customer and for the charity.
This means you must apply for a grant before ordering your vehicle.