You’ve probably heard the rumour: “You can get a mobility scooter for free on the NHS, you know.” Usually from someone who goes on to claim that their neighbour managed it so it must be a thing.
And on the surface, that sounds like one of those too-good-to-be-true Facebook comments, right up there with miracle arthritis cures and people giving away hot tubs if you can “collect today.” But this one’s not entirely nonsense. There is a way some people can get a brand-new scooter without forking out a single penny upfront. No raffle wins, no dodgy deals. It’s just a government-backed scheme called Motability that (quietly) helps thousands of people get some of their mobility back every year.
But (and there’s always a but) it’s not quite the free-for-all it sounds like. There are rules. There’s fine print. And there’s a bit of a process as with any kind of government backed scheme. Depending on your circumstances, then yes, you may be eligible to get a mobility scooter without forking out a huge whack sum upfront after breaking into your piggy bank.
What Exactly Is The Motability Scheme, Then?
In the shortest and simplest terms possible; the Motability Scheme lets you lease a mobility scooter (or a car, or a powered wheelchair) using your mobility allowance, rather than paying out of pocket.
You don’t need to save up a fortune, borrow money from friends and/or family, or start clicking on payday loan ads that keep flashing up on your Facebook feed. If you’re eligible, the payments come straight out of your benefit, and in return? You get a brand-new scooter, usually on a three-year lease, with most of the boring stuff already covered. This means things like servicing, insurance, repairs, and breakdown cover
So when something inevitably goes wrong (because let’s face it, life), you’re not the one footing the bill or Googling how to fix a mobility scooter’s wheel with a butter knife.
And no, you don’t get to keep the scooter forever; it’s a lease, not a giveaway! But, for a lot of people it’s a no-brainer, especially if buying one outright isn’t on the cards.
Who Actually Qualifies For It?
Right, so here’s where the “free scooter” dream either starts looking like a real possibility, or where it quickly gets put back on the shelf.
To be eligible for the Motability Scheme, you need to be receiving one of the following mobility-related benefits — and (this bit matters) you’ve got to have at least 12 months left on your current award:
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)
If you’re not sure what you’re on (or if it includes the mobility parts) check your award letter. Or better yet, give your benefits provider a ring and ask. It’s not the most thrilling phone call you’ll ever make, but it could save you a lot of guessing (and potentially a lot of cash).
Now, if you’re only receiving the standard rate of PIP, or you’re on Attendance Allowance or something similar then unfortunately the scheme’s a no-go. It has to be one of those higher-tier mobility benefits to access the Motability Scheme.
What Does The Motability Scheme Actually Get You?
Let’s say you meet one of the eligibility criteria for the scheme, great! But what does that actually get you? Is this going to be some clunky old scooter with more rust than range?
Well, here’s the good news: you’re getting a brand-new mobility scooter, usually on a three-year lease, and it’s not just the scooter that’s included.The Motability Scheme also covers:
- Servicing and repairs (so when something starts squeaking, rattling, or giving up entirely, you’re not paying out of pocket)
- Insurance (including theft and accidental damage)
- Breakdown cover (in case it conks out halfway back from the shops)
- Tyres and batteries (because those are the first things to wear down and the last thing you want to pay for)
TLDR; you’ll be getting most of the stuff that usually causes hassle already sorted! So you’re not just leasing a scooter, you’re getting the full works.
So Is It Free? Or Just Really Good Value?
We’ve tried to clear this up, but to really emphasise it once and for all; no it’s not technically free! You’re not just being handed a scooter out of thin air.
What’s actually happening is your mobility allowance (the benefit we mentioned earlier) gets paid directly to the Motability Scheme each month. So instead of the money landing in your bank account, it goes straight towards covering the cost of the scooter and everything that comes with it.
You’re still “paying” just not in the usual way. And because the scheme rolls in all the extras (repairs, insurance, servicing, breakdown cover, new tyres etc.), it can actually work out cheaper and a whole lot less stressful than owning one outright.
How To Easily Get Started!
If you’re thinking this all sounds great but have no idea where to begin then here’s some good news. You don’t need to become an expert on benefits paperwork or dive headfirst into government websites.
The easiest way to get the ball rolling? Speak to a proper mobility scooter retailer. Preferably one that’s part of the Motability Scheme, Eden Mobility would be our recommendation as the UK’s largest mobility retailer.
They’ll talk you through what models are available, check whether you’re eligible, help with the paperwork, and basically do all the heavy lifting so you don’t have to.
So, rather than faffing about online or second-guessing things, just pick a trusted local dealer and let them walk you through it. You still make all of the decisions but you’ve got someone helping you who knows the process back to front.
