The Motability Foundation has issued a new update, asking for people and organisations' help. The foundation is an independent charity that invests in research, transport programmes and support to give disabled people in the UK the ability to get around.
A key part of that work is The Motability Scheme, which allows qualifying people receiving benefits such as PIP and DLA to use their mobility allowance from the Government to pay directly for an affordable vehicle. That can be a car, wheelchair accessible vehicle (WAV), scooter or powered wheelchair.
Posting on X on Friday, it said: "The lack of data on wheelchair use makes it hard for the NHS and government to improve services. We’re inviting proposals from organisations to support the creation of a UK-wide survey into the experiences of wheelchair users and their families."
Motability Wheelchair Survey
In a new statement, also issued on Friday, it explained more: "We’re inviting proposals from organisations to support the creation of a UK-wide survey on the experiences of wheelchair users and their families. Through research we’ve previously funded, we know there is not enough data on wheelchair use."
"This lack of information makes it difficult for the NHS and government to improve services and creates challenges for charities advocating for change."
"We want to co-produce a national survey with disabled people to better understand the needs of wheelchair users, the pathways to wheelchair provision, and the impact of getting a high-quality wheelchair."
"For the project, we’re looking for an experienced research agency to help us develop a large-scale and robust survey that will have wide-ranging impact."
It said the research would include collaboration with the wider wheelchair sector, accessible survey design and management, engagement with disabled people and their families, robust analysis of the data and strategic communications and dissemination plan.
Five-Year Motability Strategy
It continued: "This initiative is part of our new five-year strategy, where one of our key focus areas is personal mobility. Personal mobility is about being able to move around safely and independently in everyday life.
"The right wheelchair can make that possible, but too many people across the UK still face delays, limited choice and uneven support. Strengthening wheelchair services is one way we can help remove those barriers."
"Through this work, we want to help build a future where disabled people’s experiences shape better services, stronger evidence and lasting change across the UK."
It invited organisations interested in submitting a proposal and wanting more information to email transportsolutions@motabilityfoundation.org.uk. The deadline for submitting proposals is Friday, July 10.
