Latest news with #MotabilityScheme
Daily Record
5 days ago
- Automotive
- Daily Record
DWP urged to review Motability scheme as part of new welfare reforms
Conservative MP Danny Kruger has urged the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to include a review of the Motability scheme as part of the UK Government's planned benefits reforms. The shadow minister put the suggestion to the senior DWP ministerial team on Monday during oral questions. The MP for East Wiltshire said: 'One area where the Government do not seem to be looking for savings is in the Motability scheme. It was supposed to help physically disabled people get around, but now we have 100,000 new people a year joining the scheme, many of them not physically disabled at all.' He highlighted how one in five of all new car purchases are bought through the Motability scheme which is 'costing taxpayers nearly £3 billion a year'. Mr Kruger added: 'I know that the Minister will blame us (Conservative party) for the system, but the fact is that the Government are not even looking at Motability. They have had a year, and it is their policy now. Will the Minister commit to a proper review of the Motability scheme, and if not, why not?' Minister for Social Security and Disability Sir Stephen Timms, responded: 'I am not sure whether the shadow Minister wants me to go further or not so far - he seems to be facing both ways. He is right that we are not at this point proposing any changes to the Motability scheme.' The Motability Scheme enables people in receipt of a disability benefit, with an award for the higher or enhanced rate of the mobility component, to transfer some or all of the payment to lease a new car, wheelchair-accessible vehicle, scooter or powered wheelchair. As well as a new car, customers also benefit from insurance, breakdown assistance, servicing, maintenance, tyres and windscreen repairs as part of the package. The latest price list for leasing packages shows there are now more than 800 vehicles to choose from. It's important to be aware the DWP does not oversee the scheme, but instead facilitates a direct transfer to Motability of a claimant's payment - in part or full - if they elect to join the nationwide scheme. The higher rate of the mobility part of Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is worth £77.05 each week, some £308.20 every four-week payment period. The latest figures from the charity behind the Motability Scheme (Motability Operations) show there are now 815,000 customers across the UK, including around 80,000 living in Scotland. The Motability Scheme, or Accessible Vehicles and Equipment Scheme as it is known for those on devolved disability benefits such as Adult Disability Payment (ADP) or Child Disability Payment (CDP), offers an affordable way for disabled people to get around outside more easily. PIP reforms There are currently 3.7 million people across Great Britain in claim for PIP, however, the UK Government expects that figure to rise by a further 750,000 to 4m by the end of the decade and has proposed a raft of new measures to make the benefit sustainable for future generations. Proposed package of reforms to overhaul the welfare system, include: Ending reassessments for disabled people who will never be able to work and people with lifelong conditions to ensure they can live with dignity and security. Scrapping the Work Capability Assessment to end the process that drives people into dependency, delivering on the UK Government's manifesto commitment to reform or replace it. Providing improved employment support backed by £1 billion including new tailored support conversations for people on health and disability benefits to break down barriers and unlock work. Legislating to protect those on health and disability benefits from reassessment or losing their payments if they take a chance on work. To ensure the welfare system is available for those with the greatest needs now and in the future, the UK Government has made decisions to improve its sustainability and protect those who need it most. These include: Reintroducing reassessments for people on incapacity benefits who have the capability to work to ensure they have the right support and are not written off. Targeting PIP for those with higher needs by changing the eligibility requirement to a minimum score of four on at least one of the daily living activities to receive the daily living element of the benefit, in addition to the existing eligibility criteria. Rebalancing payment levels in Universal Credit to improve the Standard Allowance. Consulting on delaying access to the health element of Universal Credit until someone is aged 22 and reinvesting savings into work support and training opportunities through the Youth Guarantee. DWP also launched an online consultation on the new proposals to coincide with the publication of the Green paper. The consultation can be completed by anyone and is open until 11.59pm on Monday June 30, 2025 - you can find full details on here. It's important to be aware that the proposed reforms announced by the DWP will not affect people in Scotland claiming Adult Disability Payment. The Scottish Government announced earlier this week it has no plans to mirror the proposed changes to devolved disability benefits.
Daily Record
05-06-2025
- Automotive
- Daily Record
Blue Badge update for people on PIP due to move to new disability payment this summer
A letter about the Blue Badge scheme will be issued following the pIP transfer to Adult Disability Payment. How to apply for a Blue Badge More than 35,400 people living in Scotland will see their Personal Independence Payment (PIP) award transfer from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to Adult Disability Payment (ADP) over the coming months. Everyone north of the border in receipt of PIP or Disability Living Allowance (DLA) will move to the devolved Social Security Scotland System by the end of 2025. The transfer is also important for people with a Blue Badge, however, it's important to be aware that the changes are on an administrative level for Social Security Scotland and DWP and not at claimant level. The Motability Scheme is offered under the same lease terms for ADP as it is for PIP and DLA. Around a week after the transfer process has been completed, claimants will receive three letters, one of which is a 'certificate of entitlement' that can be used to apply for a Blue Badge, Vehicle Tax Exemption or an accessible vehicle or equipment lease from Motability. The letter from Social Security Scotland states: 'You're entitled to apply because you get a qualifying rate of Adult Disability Payment. To lease an accessible vehicle, scooter or powered wheelchair, you must have 12 months or more remaining on your award.' The letter then states your award start and end dates, the rate of mobility component you have been awarded and the number of points scored for the two mobility questions, based on responses to the PIP 2 evidence form. The two mobility questions are: Planning and following a journey Moving around The letter also offers some guidance on how to access the Blue Badge scheme, or apply for a Vehicle Tax Exemption or accessible equipment through the Motability Scheme. The other two letters relate to the completion of the transfer and outline the award details and how it was determined. One of the letters also highlights the additional benefits someone may be eligible to receive now that they have an award for ADP. When the current Motability Scheme lease is due to end, people who took the lease out while on PIP but are now on ADP will renew in the same way, but it will be done through the Accessible Vehicles and Equipment Scheme. It's worth repeating that existing customers don't need to take any action, the transition between the schemes will be carried out by Social Security Scotland. Renewing or applying for a vehicle through the scheme will work in the same way and follow the current eligibility guidelines. The Accessible Vehicles and Equipment Scheme will help disabled people to lease a range of vehicles including: cars scooters powered wheelchairs specially adapted vehicles The latest figures from Motabiltiy indicate there are around 800,000 customers across the UK with an estimated 10 per cent (80,000) living in Scotland. The latest Price List from the Motability Scheme includes over 890 affordable cars and wheelchair accessible vehicles (WAVs). There's also a wider range of options, and all leases include the Scheme's 'worry-free' package. This includes: Insurance cover Breakdown cover (RAC) Servicing and MOT Support with an electric car As prices of many everyday essentials rise, the cost of leasing a car through the Motability Scheme continues to be affordable for disabled motorists. The Accessible Vehicles and Equipment Scheme offers the exact same level of support from the Motability Scheme, just under a different name for devolved purposes. The Motability Scheme currently has over 60 cars with zero advanced payment, including electric vehicles. There are also over 100 vehicles available with a low Advance Payment of under £500. Below is everything you need to know about the Accessible Vehicles and Equipment Scheme and swapping all or part of your mobility payment to lease a vehicle. How the new scheme works Social Security Scotland guidelines state: 'When you lease a vehicle through the scheme, it will be with our authorised provider, Motability Operations Ltd.' Social Security Scotland will help you pay the lease using all or part of either: the higher rate of the mobility component of Child Disability Payment the enhanced rate of the mobility component of Adult Disability Payment You can find more information about the scheme on the Motability website, here. Applying to lease a vehicle for yourself You can apply to lease a vehicle yourself if you meet all of the following: You get the higher rate of the mobility component of Child Disability Payment or the enhanced rate of the mobility component of Adult Disability Payment You are 16 or over You are able to manage your own payments Applying to lease a vehicle on someone's behalf Social Security Scotland also advises you may be able to apply to lease a vehicle on behalf of someone else. This might be an option if you're either: A parent or guardian of a child receiving the higher rate of the mobility component of Child Disability Payment An appointee for someone who is receiving the higher rate of the mobility component of Child Disability Payment or enhanced rate of the mobility component of Adult Disability Payment How to apply To apply to lease a vehicle using the scheme, go to the Motability website where you can: Choose a vehicle Find a dealership When visiting a dealership, you need to present your certificate of entitlement. Social Security Scotland states you will find this included in your decision award letter. Find out more about Adult Disability Payment and leasing an accessible vehicle on the website here.
Daily Record
28-05-2025
- Business
- Daily Record
New Motability Scheme payment warning to people on PIP, ADP or other disability benefits
The latest figures from the charity behind the life-changing Motability Scheme show there are now 815,000 customers across the UK, including around 80,000 living in Scotland. The Motability Scheme, or Accessible Vehicles and Equipment Scheme as it is now known for those in Scotland on Adult Disability Payment (ADP) or Child Disability Payment (CDP), offers an affordable way for disabled people to get around outside more easily. However, the charity is urging all new and existing users not to fall for callous crooks trying to con them out of money by contacting them by phone, email or text message, asking for bank details or payments for their leased vehicle, scooter, or electric powered wheelchair. The Motability Scheme said: 'We will never ask for your bank details for refunds or payments over the phone. If you're in doubt, hang up and contact us directly on 0300 456 4566.' It's important for all disability benefit claimants to remember that monthly payments to the Motability Scheme for your leased product are paid directly from your benefit issued by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) or Social Security Scotland to the Motability Scheme - you never need to pay it separately, or directly to the charity. To help all users stay safe, the charity has shared some key things to remember when anyone contacts you saying that they are from the Motability Scheme. Making a payment to the Scheme Motability explained: 'If you're expecting a payment from us we will not call you to confirm your bank or payment details over the phone. If someone calls you asking for this information, do not give it to them. 'If we send you a payment by mistake, we might contact you to let you know the cheque has been stopped and to destroy it.' Making a payment to your dealer Motability said: 'Your dealer might call you to ask for payment towards your Advance Payment or extras you added. 'If you're not sure about the call, hang up and call your dealer directly to check before you share any details.' How to spot a phone, email or text scam These are the three most common types of scam, which can catch even the savviest of people out. Motability is urging everyone to familiarise themselves with practices criminals can use to trust and access your personal and financial information. Email - phishing scam These are designed to steal your identity by 'phishing' for information. They usually look like they're from a real company and ask you to click on a link. Watch out for spelling mistakes, bad grammar and different fonts to spot these. Text message - smishing scam These scams usually ask you to give personal information such as a password or account number. Some will claim to have noticed unusual activity in your bank account and others can be fake delivery tracking links. These usually come from unknown numbers. Phone calls - vishing scam A scammer will call you pretending to be from a trusted company. They might say you've been a victim of fraud and ask for personal details such as your password or account number - you should never give this information to someone over the phone. Motability added: 'Knowing about scams and what they look like is a good first step to keep safe from them. These ten tips will help you feel more prepared in spotting and avoiding scams.' A full guide to spotting scams can be found on the Motability Scheme website here. Below is a quick guide on the Accessible Vehicles and Equipment Scheme and how to swap all or part of your mobility payment to lease a vehicle. How the new scheme works Social Security Scotland guidelines state: 'When you lease a vehicle through the scheme, it will be with our authorised provider, Motability Operations Ltd.' Social Security Scotland will help you pay the lease using all or part of either: the higher rate of the mobility component of Child Disability Payment the enhanced rate of the mobility component of Adult Disability Payment Applying to lease a vehicle for yourself You can apply to lease a vehicle yourself if you meet all of the following: You get the higher rate of the mobility component of Child Disability Payment or the enhanced rate of the mobility component of Adult Disability Payment You are 16 or over You are able to manage your own payments Applying to lease a vehicle on someone's behalf Social Security Scotland also advises that you may be able to apply to lease a vehicle on behalf of someone else. This might be an option if you're either: How to apply To apply to lease a vehicle using the scheme, go to the Motability website where you can: Choose a vehicle Find a dealership When visiting a dealership, you need to present your certificate of entitlement. Social Security Scotland states that you will find this included in your decision award letter. Find out more about Adult Disability Payment and leasing an accessible vehicle on the website here.
Daily Record
20-05-2025
- Automotive
- Daily Record
Motability Scheme update for people on PIP, DLA or Adult Disability Payment
Proposed reforms by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to health and disability benefits, including Personal Independence Payment (PIP), may affect the daily living award for an estimated 800,000 claimants, however the mobility element will remain unchanged. The latest figures from the company behind the life-changing Motability Scheme show there are now 815,000 customers across the UK, including around 80,000 living in Scotland. The Motability Scheme, or Accessible Vehicles and Equipment Scheme as it is now known for those in Scotland on Adult Disability Payment (ADP) or Child Disability Payment (CDP), offers an affordable way for disabled people to get around outside more easily. It's important to be aware that both schemes are the exact same and run by Motability Operations - it's just a different name depending on which part of the country you live in. The scheme enables people in receipt of a disability benefit, with an award for the higher or enhanced rate of the mobility component, to transfer some or all of the payment to lease a new car, wheelchair-accessible vehicle, scooter or powered wheelchair. People on benefits such as PIP, ADP, Disability Living Allowance (DLA), Scottish Adult DLA, War Pensioners' Mobility Supplement (WPMS) and Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP) can join the scheme. A full list of qualifying benefits and award level required can be found on the Motability website here. As well as a new car, customers also benefit from insurance, breakdown assistance, servicing, maintenance, tyres and windscreen repairs as part of the package. The latest price list for leasing packages was recently published on the Motability Scheme website and shows there are now more than 800 vehicles to choose from. An update on the website said: 'Our price list for April to June 2025 is now live. There are great options to choose from at every price point, so you can find the right fit for your needs. 'We're here to help you find a mobility solution that works for you. We update our line-up every three months to make sure you always have access to the best possible choice - whatever changes are happening in the car market.' Motability goes on to explain how car manufacturers are focusing more on electric vehicles (EVs), meaning there are now more electric cars to choose from and if you're thinking about making the switch, the charity can help with all your queries, including charging. The charity explained how the 'cost of building and running a car has gone up, including things like insurance, repairs, tyres and parts' adding that 'every lease has insurance, servicing, repairs and breakdown cover included in the price you pay. So these rising costs can affect prices'. Motability continued: 'At the same time, petrol and diesel cars are becoming harder to source and more expensive to produce. You might notice higher Advance Payments for petrol and diesel cars. Even so, the Motability Scheme remains cheaper on average than leasing elsewhere.' If you are choosing a car or wheelchair-accessible vehicle, it's important to be aware that while some only use part or all of the mobility award payment, most require an advanced fee which can range from between £100 and £2,000. What else is included in the lease? You will get a brand-new vehicle, and a full package which includes: Insurance Servicing and maintenance Full RAC breakdown assistance Yearly tax Three drivers - you can change these whenever you like Kwik Fit replacement tyres Windscreen repair or replacement 60,000 mileage allowance over three years, or 100,000 for WAVWheelchair Accessible Vehicles Many adaptations at no extra cost Full details on the Motability Scheme can be found on the website here. Below is a quick guide on the Accessible Vehicles and Equipment Scheme and how to swap all or part of your mobility payment to lease a vehicle. How the new scheme works Social Security Scotland guidelines state: 'When you lease a vehicle through the scheme, it will be with our authorised provider, Motability Operations Ltd.' Social Security Scotland will help you pay the lease using all or part of either: the higher rate of the mobility component of Child Disability Payment the enhanced rate of the mobility component of Adult Disability Payment Applying to lease a vehicle for yourself You can apply to lease a vehicle yourself if you meet all of the following: Applying to lease a vehicle on someone's behalf Social Security Scotland also advises that you may be able to apply to lease a vehicle on behalf of someone else. This might be an option if you're either: A parent or guardian of a child receiving the higher rate of the mobility component of Child Disability Payment An appointee for someone who is receiving the higher rate of the mobility component of Child Disability Payment or enhanced rate of the mobility component of Adult Disability Payment How to apply To apply to lease a vehicle using the scheme, go to the Motability website where you can: Choose a vehicle Find a dealership When visiting a dealership, you need to present your certificate of entitlement. Social Security Scotland states that you will find this included in your decision award letter. here.
The Herald Scotland
29-04-2025
- Sport
- The Herald Scotland
First ever National Exhibition Event for SDS to take place
The event will bring together people with disabilities, community organisations, Sport Governing Bodies, ParalympicsGB, Third Sector organisations and education partners from across Scotland, as well as representatives from the Scottish Government. Paralympians including Stephen McGuire will also be in attendance and there will be opportunities to take the Paris 2024 gold medallist on in his sport of Boccia. Others including Table Tennis star Martin Perry and Boccia's Kayleigh Brown. Read More The event is supported by the Motability Scheme and also offers opportunities for those in attendance to try out other sports, meet local support teams and engage in workshops on inclusion in sport. Physical inactivity continues to disproportionately affect people with a disability and the National Exhibition Event will provide an opportunity to showcase inclusive progress and community empowerment. At least eight different sports will be available to try while there will also be an all-ability health walk, a parkrun, adaptive bikes and introductory fitness classes on the day. For more event information and to register your initial interest, please visit JustGo.
