Motability Scheme Slashes Annual Mileage Allowance for Disabled Drivers
Disabled drivers across the UK are confronting a substantial reduction in their annual travel limits as part of a major overhaul of the Motability scheme. Under new contracts set to commence this summer, the current annual allowance of 20,000 miles will be drastically cut to just 10,000 miles before additional charges apply.
Sharp Increase in Excess Mileage Charges
From July 1, drivers who exceed this new limit will be required to pay 25p for every extra mile recorded. This represents a fivefold increase from the previous excess charge of 5p per mile, raising serious concerns that individuals in rural areas or those with frequent hospital appointments could be priced off the road entirely.
Cross-Party Political Challenge Over Geographic Inequality
Cross-party MPs have now directly challenged the Government regarding how these restrictions will impact families who depend on their vehicles for work, education, and essential services. The Department for Work and Pensions has been called upon to review whether the move creates a geographic inequality for those living far from crucial amenities.
Liberal Democrat MP Will Forster questioned Secretary of State for Work and Pensions Pat McFadden, asking if the department had assessed the impact on disabled people of changing the mileage allowance from 20,000 to 10,000 miles. Labour's Samantha Niblett further pressed for an evaluation of the potential effects on disabled individuals and families in semi-rural and rural areas, particularly those reliant on their vehicles for longer journeys to work, schools, healthcare appointments, and other essential services.
Government Response and Scheme Administration
In response, Minister of State for Social Security and Disability, Sir Stephen Timms, clarified that responsibility for the terms and administration of the Scheme rests with the Motability Foundation and its Board of Governors. He noted that the changes, announced on March 26, only apply to new leases, with existing leases unaffected. The Motability Foundation has indicated that approximately 75% of customers already use fewer miles than the proposed new allowance but acknowledges some impact and is considering mitigation in limited circumstances.
Mandatory Telematics Installation for New Leases
In addition to the mileage reductions, new leases will now require the mandatory installation of black-box telematics technology, known as Drive Smart. This change applies to all vehicles for new drivers and anyone with a person under 30 listed on the lease. The equipment monitors braking and speed, providing a weekly colour-coded rating via a mobile app. Drivers consistently receiving poor scores could face removal from the scheme.
Motability states that its average motorists cover 7,500 miles annually and introduced Drive Smart in response to an increase in insurance claims. A spokesperson mentioned they are actively reviewing customer feedback, particularly regarding usage, to address concerns.
Growing Public Opposition and Petition
A petition protesting these changes has been launched on Parliament.uk, already garnering over 40,000 signatures. If the total reaches 100,000 by July 15, the matter will be considered for a full parliamentary debate. This public outcry underscores the widespread anxiety among disabled drivers and their families about the financial and practical implications of the new restrictions.
