Motability Scheme update for people on PIP, ADP and other disability benefits

The Mobility Scheme has over 800,000 customers

New data from the company behind the Motability Scheme reveals that there are now over 800,000 customers across the UK. The Motability Scheme, on Adult Disability Payment (ADP) or Child Disability Payment (CDP), provides an affordable solution for disabled people to navigate the outdoors more easily.

The scheme allows individuals receiving a disability benefit, with an award for the higher or enhanced rate of the mobility component, to allocate some or all of the payment towards leasing a new car, wheelchair-accessible vehicle, scooter or powered wheelchair. Individuals on Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Disability Living Allowance (DLA), War Pensioners' Mobility Supplement (WPMS) and Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP) are eligible to join the scheme.

In addition to a new car, customers also receive insurance, breakdown assistance, servicing, maintenance, tyres and windscreen repairs as part of the package. The most recent price list for leasing packages has just been released on the Motability Scheme website, revealing a selection of over 950 vehicles.

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When choosing a car or a wheelchair-accessible vehicle, it's important to know that while some may use a portion or all of the mobility award payment (£75.75), others might require an advanced payment ranging from £100 to £2,000. Andrew Miller, CEO of Motability Operations, shared insights on the increasing costs drivers face across the nation due to rising inflation and energy expenses, reports the Daily Record.

Additionally, as the UK shifts towards electric vehicles, car manufacturers must meet sales targets, which could mean more vehicles on the Scheme needing a higher advance payment. He stated: "We're working with car manufacturers and our partners with the aim of providing our customers with stand-out value and the Scheme is 45 per cent cheaper on average compared to alternative options.

"During this period of rising costs and an unprecedented period of change for the car industry, we're committed to ensuring the sustainability of the Scheme so that we can continue to keep our customers connected now and in the long term."

It's also not widely known that new claimants or individuals who have been receiving higher rates of qualifying benefits for a while could be eligible for a £750 grant when leasing a vehicle for the first time, which can be put towards the initial payment on a new lease. The New Vehicle Payment for cars and Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles is a one-time offer per customer. For money-saving tips, sign up to our Money newsletter here

The money can either be sent directly to the dealer to contribute towards an Advance Payment, or it can be paid in full to the customer after they receive their vehicle. For scooters and powered wheelchairs, there's a New Product Payment of £100, which is received after the new equipment has been delivered. Motability advises that customers cannot receive both the New Vehicle Payment and the New Product Payment.

The latest Motability price list offers over 950 cars, including more than 45 that require no advance payment, meaning the £750 New Vehicle Payment would go directly to the claimant. Customers can opt for a lease that uses their entire mobility allowance, known as a variable lease.

Guidance on the website states: “As manufacturers move their attention to electric vehicles (EVs), we’re able to bring more choice to the Scheme. Their change in focus means that some petrol and many diesel models are being phased out."

The latest list includes 209 electric cars, with 42 models having Advance Payments under £1,000. However, these figures may change, but updates can be checked on the Motability Scheme website.

What else is included in the lease? You will get a brand-new vehicle, and a full package which includes:

• Insurance
• Servicing and maintenance
• Full RAC breakdown assistance
• Yearly tax
• Three drivers - you can change these whenever you like
• Kwik Fit replacement tyres
• Windscreen repair or replacement
• 60,000 mileage allowance over three years, or 100,000 for WAVWheelchair Accessible Vehicles
• Many adaptations at no extra cost

The lease also includes a brand-new vehicle and a comprehensive package. Full details on the Motability Scheme can be found on their website.

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