What the lease can include
The Scheme says its packages include items such as insurance, servicing, maintenance and breakdown cover, with details depending on the type of lease. Some vehicles require an Advance Payment. The mobility allowance is paid to the Scheme during the lease, so compare the complete arrangement with buying and running equipment privately.
Cars and wheelchair-accessible vehicles
A standard car may be adapted for driving, transferring or storing equipment. A wheelchair-accessible vehicle allows some passengers to travel in their chair. Vehicle size, ramp or lift access and the seated position vary. Try the vehicle with the actual chair and the people who usually travel together.
Scooters and powered wheelchairs
Eligible customers can lease certain scooters or powered wheelchairs instead of a car or WAV. The Scheme does not generally allow both leases at the same time. Think about storage, charging and everyday routes before choosing. A powered chair may also need clinical seating input beyond the lease selection.
Drivers and use of the vehicle
Nominated drivers can be added under Scheme rules. The vehicle must be used by or for the benefit of the disabled customer. Check current rules directly, particularly for drivers, mileage and use away from home, because terms can change during a multi-year lease.
Where to begin
Use the Scheme's current eligibility checker or contact it directly. Gather details of the allowance and how long remains on the award. Visit suitable dealers, take test drives and compare Advance Payments, adaptations and waiting times. Do not choose solely from photographs or headline offers.
Review the choice before placing the order
A lease lasts for a substantial period, so revisit the regular journeys, passenger needs and equipment likely to be carried. Ask about delivery estimates and what happens if situation change before the vehicle arrives. Read the current Scheme information rather than relying on terms remembered from an earlier lease. If an Advance Payment is involved, understand what it covers and whether any charitable assistance may apply. Keep allowance award information current and tell the Scheme promptly about relevant changes. Test drives should cover entry, seating, visibility and the journeys that matter, not merely how the car feels to drive. Take wheelchairs, walkers and regular passengers. For electric vehicles, consider charging at home and on common routes. Scheme packages and eligibility can change, so use the current official material when the order is placed. If the disabled customer does not drive, nominated drivers still need to understand that the vehicle must be used for the customer's benefit under the Scheme rules. Before collection, confirm which adaptations will already be fitted and who demonstrates them. Do not accept a vehicle until the customer and regular drivers can use the essential equipment safely.
Would it help to talk through the journey?
Tell us where the person needs to go, what equipment is used now and where the awkward points occur. We may be able to suggest a sensible next step or the kind of specialist to contact.
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