On a Monday in October, I excitedly picked up my new Motability car. With just a trip to the petrol station and back, I had already clocked 22 miles. The following day, I needed to visit Northampton Hospital, a trip I could not avoid. Being reliant on my car isn't a choice; it's a necessity. I have Lupus, Sarcoidosis, diabetes, an underactive thyroid, Lymphodema, osteoarthritis, and other medical conditions. Simply put, public transport isn't feasible given my health and circumstances.

Under the current Motability scheme, I'm restricted to 30,000 miles over three years, which averages 27.4 miles a day. This cap is unrealistic and discriminatory against those of us who depend on our cars for daily living and healthcare needs. If I drive beyond this limit, I must pay an additional 21p per mile. This fee, on top of the £400 monthly cost of my car, is unfair and burdensome.

For many people like me who are not serviced by a regular bus route, or for whom a taxi ride is three times costlier than using our own vehicle, this mileage restriction acts as an unfair penalty for having a disability. It forces us to limit necessary trips to hospitals, doctors, and other essential appointments, or face financial penalties.

The government needs to reassess these mileage restrictions and consider the additional pressures they impose on individuals who rely on their vehicles for freedom and essential mobility. We urge the reconsideration of the 30,000-mile limit to better support disabled individuals in maintaining independence and accessing essential services without facing undue financial strain.

By signing this petition, you are supporting a call for equitable treatment and supporting us in living more independently and with dignity. Please sign to help us push for a change that respects the needs of disabled car users and removes the disproportionate penalty of excessive mileage costs.