Motability
Use your mobility allowance to lease a scooter or powered wheelchair with Motability.
Most scooters and powered wheelchairs cost less to lease per week than your mobility allowance, so the remainder of your allowance continues to be paid directly to you. The cost of your lease includes what we call the worry-free package.
Am I eligible?
To be eligible to join the Motability Scheme, you need to receive one of the following mobility allowances and you must have at least 12 months’ award length 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)
Visit Motability’s website for more information – www.motability.co.uk
What equipment is available to me on Motability?
Here’s a quick overview of the different types of equipment available and things to be aware of before deciding which to go for.
Travel Scooters
Light and easy to transport, these scooters either fold or dismantle into a few parts to allow you to transport them in a car boot. You’ll need to make sure that any small scooter you lease can fit into your vehicle, and that you, or your carer, are physically able to lift it into the vehicle. Some of these scooters are made with a lighter frame to make them easier to transport.
- Small, compact and lightweight
- Fold or dismantle for storage and/or transportation
- Can be used around the home
- Not suitable for use on the road
- Generally, have a lower maximum weight capacity than the larger scooters
- The distance these scooters can travel on a fully charged battery is generally shorter than the larger scooters, but with some lighter lithium batteries, extra distance can be achieved.
6-8 mph Scooters
Suitable for longer distances and rougher surfaces, these scooters can carry between 20 to 39 stone (up to a maximum of 250kg) in passenger weight. Due to the size of these scooters, you’ll need to have space to store them in a secure, locked area. All Mobility 6-8 mph scooters are classified as Class 3 products by the Department for Transport so they must be registered with the DVLA; this will be arranged for you by your dealer. They can travel up to 8mph on the road (4mph limit on pavements).
- Can be used on roads if registered
- Maximum speed of 8mph
- Generally, have larger seats and a greater weight capacity
- Generally, have a greater battery range, meaning they can travel further between charging, usually up to 25 or 30 miles
- Require more storage space
- Include lights and indicators
- Not recommended for transporting in a car
Pavement Scooters
Generally sturdier and able to transport more weight than small scooters, pavement scooters can travel at speeds of up to 4mph (the legal limit for pavements). The ride quality of these scooters is usually better than the travel versions. They are not able to be folded or dismantled making transporting these in a car much more difficult and not recommended.
- Most models will have a greater travel range than small scooters
- Some have a greater weight capacity
- Many have a wider turning circle than smaller models
Standard Powered Wheelchairs
Standard Powered Wheelchairs come fitted with standard seats and controls, although they will vary between individual models. Some models will fold or dismantle to allow you to transport them in a car.
- Most adaptations cannot be added to these wheelchairs
- Variations of these wheelchairs are available through all of the Motability powered wheelchair dealer network
Complex Powered Wheelchairs
These have different mechanisms available, various seating options, and are capable of having adaptations or accessories fitted to them to better meet your needs and to make mobility easier for your specific disability.
Custom-Built Powered Wheelchairs
Whatever your requirements, we can tailor a powered wheelchair to suit your specific needs. Custom-built powered wheelchairs are built with various adaptations and modifications. They use advanced technology so even if you have very limited movement, it is likely that you’ll find a suitable product. If you believe you need a custom solution, please let us know.
What else is included in the scheme?
- Insurance cover
- Breakdown assistance and cover
- Servicing, damage and repair
Most scooters and powered wheelchairs cost less to lease per week than your mobility allowance, so the remainder of your allowance continues to be paid directly to you. The cost of your lease includes what we call the worry-free package.
Whats Next?
Give Us A Call
We will ask some questions, explain the scheme and arrange a demonstration at home once we’ve ascertained which products may be suitable for you. We come to you, carry out an assessment of you and your home, and ask questions to ensure we find the best product for you.