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The Car Motability Scheme In the UK
The Car Motability Scheme has been in effect for some thirty years now and the way that it functions is relatively simple. Basically, if you or someone you know of currently receives the Higher Rate Mobility Component of the War Pensioners Mobility Supplement or the Disability Living Allowance, then today obtaining a new car is more affordable and easier than ever. You see all qualifiers who fit the criteria are now allowed to direct all or part of their allowance towards obtaining a vehicle of their choosing.
Began In 1977 and It Has Helped Some Two Million People
This program was founded in 1977 by Lord Sterling and Lord Goodman and is a collaboration or partnership between the government, various charitable agencies, prominent UK banking institutions and motor and insurance companies. Its primary goal since its inception has been to assist disabled people who qualify, in obtaining decent modes of personal transportation, which includes automobiles. As of date, the program has assisted some two million citizens.
Who Qualifies For the Car Motibility Scheme in the UK?
The DLA or Disability Living Allowance in the UK is divided into two separate components, with one part being Care and the other being mobility. Each component is valued at a different rate depending on the level of the persons disability. To qualify for the Car Mobility Scheme, a person must be classified in the highest rate of the Mobility component or be receiving the War Pensioners Mobility Supplement.
The Contract Hire Car Acquisition Option
By far the most commonly chosen option, is what is referred to as the contract hire new car option. A full 95% of the participants opt for it and to qualify one must have at least twelve months remaining on their award at the time their application is submitted. While the contract hire option doesn't lead to full ownership of the vehicle, it is none the less by far the most affordable means of putting a disabled driver behind the wheel. Also keep in mind that with the contract option insurance, tyres, servicing, road tax and general breakdown insurance coverage are all included in the plan package.
Car Motibility Scheme in the UK Full Purchase Option Requirements
The other remaining 5% who choose to opt for full ownership of their vehicle by taking the purchase option are required to show that their award length is such that it covers the entire length of the purchase agreement. Additionally, the care and maintenance features that come with a contract hire package simply aren't included in a full ownership plan. Also remember to keep in mind that none of the funds awarded in the 'care' section of the DLA can be used for the acquisition of a vehicle.
One Need Not Be a Licensed Driver To Apply
Currently, at the present time there are 480,000 disabled people in the UK who are using this plan with a full 97% satisfaction rate. Also it's important to note that a person need not in fact be a qualified and licensed driver to obtain a vehicle through his plan. What this means is that a DLA recipient can obtain vehicle for the purposes of them being driven by a care giver. Additionally, parents with children over the age of three receiving DLA can apply for a vehicle through the program on their child's behalf.
About the author: Chris Tyrrell writes for Stephen James BMW an award winning London dealership, specialising in cars motability. Visit the website to find out more about the scheme.
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