Motability policy changes mean that eligibility for grants from the Special Vehicle Fund now discriminates against those who cannot work, not volunteer, are not in education for at least 12 hours a week or who do not have sole responsibility to care for a child under 14 years of age.

Motability have, without any consultation or even any public announcement, changed their grant making conditions for funding for drive-from-wheelchair and Internal transfer wheelchair vehicles. Motability claim these changes are necessary as funding is limited and financial assistance can only be offered for the best value solution.

We are shocked that severely disabled people who rely on access to such vehicles will no longer be eligible for grants from the scheme and therefore unable to replace vehicles which are essential to their independence.

For those deemed ‘undeserving and unworthy’ for such funding it is a massive blow to independence and will, as most cuts seem to, prevent disabled people getting an education, getting and keeping employment and being able to take part in society in the same way non-disabled people can.

Yet Motability is a publicly funded body operating on behalf of the government which claims to be “Providing disabled people and their families with the real benefits of freedom.”

Such vehicles are not provided free of charge – disabled people in the UK contribute the Motability component of their DLA/PIP awards towards the cost.

  Anyone already affected by these changes or who may be can contact us for further advice at mail@dpac.uk.net