Motability Power Wheelchair Scheme
It costs a lot for the privilege of being disabled, something which always seems terribly unfair to us. Specialised disability equipment such as power chairs and scooters can cost thousands of pounds, and many of us cannot afford to buy these items outright. One method of purchasing scooters and power chairs in the UK which is available exclusively for disabled people is via the Motability scheme.
The Motability scheme was originally set up by the government to provide disabled people with cars, and has been incredibly successful. In total the charity has enabled two million drivers to get back on the road. The current scheme is now much broader and covers the purchase of a broader range of mobility devices.
Motability Power Chair Scheme
The Motability Power Wheelchair Scheme offers both contract Hire and Hire Purchase for both scooters and wheelchairs to those in receipt of Higher rate Disabled Living Allowance, a tax free benefit for people who either need personal care or who have trouble getting about (DLA). The Scheme is available to anyone who is in receipt of the following, and who has at least 12 months time left on their award when applying for a power chair or scooter.
1. Higher rate Mobility component of the DLA (Disability Living Allowance)
2. War Pensions Mobility Supplement.
How does the Scheme work?
The most popular option, chosen by 95% of users, is the Contract Hire scheme. All maintenance, insurance, servicing-tyres and breakdown cover are included. A wheelchair can be a production line model or a personally manufactured "bespoke" model, such as the Pride Quantum range.
Once the application has been processed via Route2Mobility, who administer the scheme, the customer will have the appropriate amount taken from their benefit every four weeks for the term of the Agreement. Any balance remaining is paid as usual. On larger or very specialised models, an additional amount may be required as a deposit.
Motability is a registered charity, adminstering the government's Specialised Vehicles fund for customers requiring wheelchairs. Route2Mobility is a limited compnay under contract to Motability.
Contract Hire v. Hire Purchase
Contract Hire is often favoured, as it a convenient monthly payment, with no deposit required. In addition a number of extras are included - hopefully leading to stress-free mobility and no financial shocks around the corner: The scheme provides:
- Powerchair/ power wheelchair or scooter
- Insurance, (a small excess is paid in the event of theft, accidental damage, third party or an extended warranty claim, at present £35.00)
- Annual servicing and repairs
- Tyres, (excluding punctures) and batteries
- Break down cover
The usual period of the agreement is 3 years but can range from 1 - 4 years, depending on the cost of the model selected. At the end of the hire period, most dealers will allow the user to purchase the vehicle for a nominal sum - Gower Mobility, for example, charge just £1.00!
The four-weekly payment is deducted from the Higher rate Disabled Living Allowance, and is paid to Route2Mobility. If there is a balance outstanding not being used, this will be paid to you in the usual way. Some customer prefer to purchase via hire purchase. This comes with a one-year-manufacturers warranty, and the user remains responsible for paying and for servicing, any repairs and for breakdown cover and insurance.
Checking Eligibility
To check if you are eligible for Contract Hire or Purchase of a Power Chair, Wheelchair or Mobility Scooter through the Higher Rate Mobility Component of your Disability Living Allowance, contact the Dpeartment for Work and Pensions on 0845 712 3456.
Note that the Higher Rate DLA must run for the term of the purchase or contraact hire.
War Pensioners Mobility Supplement, please contact:
Service Personnel and Veterans Agency on
0800 169 2277.
PLEAE NOTE THAT YOU CANNOT HAVE BOTH A CAR AND A SCOOTER ON THE SCHEME.
Resources:
Motability - official site of the charity.
