The Motability Foundation has issued a fresh update, calling on organisations to lend their support. The independent charity channels investment into research, transport programmes, and assistance to enable disabled people across the UK to travel freely.
Motability Scheme Overview
A central element of its work is The Motability Scheme, which allows eligible individuals receiving benefits such as PIP and DLA to use their Government mobility allowance to pay directly for an affordable vehicle. This can include a car, wheelchair accessible vehicle (WAV), scooter, or powered wheelchair.
Friday's Announcement
Posting on X on Friday, the foundation stated: "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 Details
In a fresh statement also released on Friday, the foundation elaborated: "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."
The foundation stated that the research would encompass collaboration with the broader wheelchair sector, accessible survey design and management, engagement with disabled people and their families, robust analysis of the data, and a strategic communications and dissemination plan.
Five-Year Motability Strategy
The foundation went on to say: "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."
Organisations keen to submit a proposal or seeking further details are invited to contact transportsolutions@motabilityfoundation.org.uk. The closing date for proposals is Friday, July 10.
