Disabled people will continue to be able to lease mobility vehicles under Scotland’s new social security system.
The Scottish Government has accredited the charity Motability Scheme to provide cars, wheelchair accessible vehicles, scooters and powered wheelchairs that can be adapted to meet disabled people’s needs.
The service provides access to a wide choice of vehicles at affordable rates without the need for credit checks for people who receive a disability benefit at the appropriate rate, meaning users only have to cover fuel costs.
Announcing the accreditation award at Macklin Motors in Dunfermline, Social Security Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville said:
“Access to an appropriate vehicle that can be adapted to meet the needs of disabled people provides a vital lifeline and freedom to get around that might not be possible otherwise.
“We want to make sure those who need that support have access to a competitive range of affordable vehicles that meet their needs and a package that keeps them on the road without problem.”
Barry Le Grys, Chief Executive of Motability, said:
“The Motability Scheme is delighted to continue to work closely with the Scottish Government to support the needs of disabled people and their families.”
Etienne d’Aboville, Chief Executive of the Glasgow Centre for Inclusive Living, said:
“As a full-time wheelchair user and long-time wheelchair accessible vehicle driver, I can testify what a difference this has made to my own independence and quality of life.
“I therefore welcome the Scottish Government’s launch of Scotland’s own Accessible Vehicles and Equipment Scheme. This is a golden opportunity for Scotland to take the best of the broadly successful Motability Scheme and improve it further still.”
