One of the challenges a carer might face is ensuring the person they look after has safe and dependable transportation. For people with mobility issues, having the right vehicle can significantly improve their daily life and help them remain independent.
Whether it’s getting to appointments, doing everyday tasks, or simply going out when they want, the right vehicle can make a difference. It gives them more freedom and control over their life, which is essential for their mental and emotional well-being.
While carers can’t apply for a Motability car in their own right, there are various ways they can still be involved in the process and drive the vehicle. This guide explores how the Motability scheme works for carers and how they can access a wheelchair accessible vehicle (WAV).
What is the Motability scheme?
The Motability scheme lets individuals who receive certain disability benefits exchange those benefits for a car, scooter, or powered wheelchair. Eligible individuals can lease or purchase a vehicle that suits their mobility needs, including wheelchair accessible vehicles (WAVs), which are specially adapted to accommodate wheelchairs.
To be eligible for the Motability scheme, the applicant must receive one of the following: the Higher Rate Mobility Component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA), the Enhanced Rate Mobility Component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP), the War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement (WPMS), or the Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP).
Can a carer get a mobility car?
Carers can’t apply for a Motability car themselves. However, they can play a key role in the process. One of the most common ways carers get involved is by becoming a named driver. As a named driver, you’re allowed to drive the Motability vehicle on behalf of the disabled person. Carers must be over 21 and have a valid driving license to be eligible. Plus, you must be named on the lease agreement, and both you and the disabled person must agree to the terms of the lease. Typically, carers can drive the vehicle within a five-mile radius of the registered address unless other arrangements are made with Motability.
As well as being a named driver, a carer can also act as a temporary driver, nominee, or appointee. A temporary driver can drive the Motability vehicle for short periods (up to 30 days at a time). While temporary drivers don’t need to be on the lease agreement, they must have permission from the carer or the vehicle owner.
A nominee is someone who takes care of the Motability application or vehicle for the disabled person. Carers are often chosen for this role, especially if the disabled person finds it difficult to manage the process. As a nominee, the carer would handle the paperwork and ensure the vehicle is delivered and looked after according to the lease terms.
An appointee is legally responsible for handling the disabled person’s finances, including their Motability benefits. If the disabled person can’t manage their money, the appointee can apply for the Motability vehicle for them.
The main difference between a carer and an appointee is that while a carer provides personal support, an appointee handles the legal and financial aspects of the disabled person.
Using a mobility car as a carer
Driving a Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV)
There are three main types of WAVs: drive-from WAVs, upfront passenger WAVs, and internal transfer WAVs. For people who need to drive themselves, a drive-from WAV is a great choice because it lets the wheelchair user stay in their wheelchair while driving. An upfront passenger WAV lets the wheelchair user sit in the front passenger seat, and they can transfer into a regular seat if needed. Finally, an internal transfer WAV enables the wheelchair user to transfer from their wheelchair into a regular seat with help from a carer or another person.
It’s important to consider both the needs of the disabled person and the driver when choosing a WAV. If the wheelchair user is going to be the only driver, a drive-from WAV may be your most practical choice. However, an upfront passenger WAV could be more suitable for a passenger who needs assistance transferring, with someone else doing the majority of the driving.
Can a carer get free road tax?
As they’re designed to help people with disabilities, Motability vehicles are usually exempt from road tax. This exemption is part of the government’s effort to make it easier for those who need extra support to get around.
Can a carer drive without the disabled person present?
As long as the car is used for reasonable purposes, carers can drive the Motability vehicle without the disabled person present, including running errands or attending appointments, as long as the vehicle primarily supports the disabled person’s mobility.
Can a carer get a disabled badge?
If you often drive a disabled person, applying for a Blue Badge is worth it, as it can make parking much easier. The badge lets you park in special spaces that are usually closer to the entrances of places like shops, hospitals and other public buildings, making it more convenient for you and the person you care for.
How carers can benefit from the scheme
While carers can’t apply for a Motability vehicle in their own name, there are several ways to get involved and use the vehicle to support the person you care for. As a named driver, nominee, or appointee, the Motability scheme offers flexibility for carers. Benefits like Blue Badges and free road tax can also make transportation easier for carers and those they look after.
Get in touch today
If you’re considering a Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV) or need more information for carers on the Motability scheme, Ransome Mobility WAV can help you find the vehicle that’s right for you. You can browse our selection of wheelchair accessible vehicles for sale and hire or contact us to learn how we can help you secure a WAV under the Motability scheme.