Motability
Freedom or a Bind?

Paul Matthews, Information Officer, BCODP

The Motability scheme supplies cars and wheelchairs to enable us to be more independent. Cars are usually supplied through a 3-year lease scheme, at the end of which you return your car and if you wish to continue you receive a brand new one.

A common word used by Motability is “freedom” and it is certainly true that some users of the Motability scheme would find it difficult if not impossible to afford a new car without it. However, since when has the word freedom been associated with severe financial penalties?

Over 3-years of use most cars will have the odd minor scratches and scrapes and when you have got to lift a wheelchair in and out of the car each time or transfer yourself across the likelihood of this happening are far increased. No problem, this is bound to be expected - no? OK, I have paid for insurance as part of the deal so I’ll use that to have it repaired - no! Apparently, Motability class this as “wilful damage” and due to a change in the regulations this is no longer covered by the insurance, leaving the leaseholder to foot the bill.

On top of this if you use your car to travel more than 12,000 miles - which is quite likely if you work and are dependent on your car for your job - then you must pay extra for each mile above this at the end of the lease.

So perhaps the best way to have freedom on the road at an affordable price is to pad your car with cotton wool and only drive it to the local supermarket — if you can get an accessible parking space!

© Copyright British Council of Disabled People 2002