The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is protecting people on three benefits from a new rule that takes effect from July 1. Motability Operations has announced updates to the Motability Scheme for customers in the UK, but these changes will not apply to those receiving allowances from Social Security Scotland.
Changes Delayed for Scottish Recipients
In March, under the Labour Party government, Motability Operations said it had to make changes to the Motability Scheme from 1 July 2026 in response to tax changes introduced in last year's Autumn Budget. However, customers who receive their allowance from Social Security Scotland will not be affected by these changes for now.
Motability Operations explained in an update: "The Motability Scheme operates under a separate agreement in Scotland, called the Accessible Vehicles and Equipment Scheme (AVES). Because of this, changes to the Scheme in Scotland need to be agreed with the Scottish Government before they can be rolled out. We’re continuing discussions with the Scottish Government about what changes will be introduced and when."
Benefits Shielded
The allowances issued by Social Security Scotland that qualify for the Motability Scheme are:
- Scottish Adult Disability Living Allowance (SADLA)
- Adult Disability Payment (ADP)
- Child Disability Payment (CDP)
While discussions continue, customers receiving these allowances can place orders as normal with the current lease package. They must be in the last three months of their lease to order their next vehicle.
Current Lease Package Details
The current package for a three-year lease includes 60,000 miles, up to eight tyre replacements, a 5p excess mileage fee (plus standard rate VAT), and no VE103 admin fee to take the car abroad. For a five-year Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV) lease, it includes 100,000 miles, up to 10 tyre replacements, a 5p excess mileage fee (plus standard rate VAT), and no VE103 admin fee.
