The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has delivered a significant update, firmly rejecting proposals to extend the Motability Scheme to recipients of Attendance Allowance. This follows a direct request for the government to consider the expansion.
Why Attendance Allowance Doesn't Qualify
The central reason for the rejection lies in the fundamental design of the benefits. Labour Party MP Mohammad Yasin had suggested the change, but the DWP, represented by Minister for Social Security and Disability Sir Stephen Timms, provided a clear explanation. He stated that Attendance Allowance is intended to help older people with severe disabilities who have long-term care needs, but crucially, "has never included a mobility component".
Sir Stephen Timms outlined the benefits that do qualify for the Motability Scheme:
- The enhanced rate mobility component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- The higher rate mobility component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- Armed Forces Independence Payment
- War Pensioners' Mobility Supplement
Spending Flexibility Remains
While ruling out using Attendance Allowance to lease a vehicle through the official scheme, the Minister highlighted an important flexibility. "There is no constraint on what an award of Attendance Allowance can be spent on," he said, noting that a recipient may choose to use the benefit money to fund mobility aids independently.
Broader Context of the Motability Scheme
This clarification comes amidst wider discussions about the future of the Motability Scheme. It was recently announced that disabled people using the scheme will no longer be permitted to lease "premium" vehicles like BMWs and Mercedes. Critics have called for a review of the scheme, which leases adaptable cars to eligible individuals.
Furthermore, Chancellor Rachel Reeves has linked the scheme's vehicle choices to economic strategy, suggesting that increased use of British-built cars would support skilled jobs and boost the economy. This follows speculation about potential government changes in the upcoming Budget aimed at managing the cost of the scheme as the number of eligible claimants grows.
The DWP's statement, made on 17 December 2025, therefore closes the door on one potential avenue for expanding access to the Motability Scheme, reinforcing the existing link between specific, mobility-focused benefit components and eligibility for leased vehicles.
