Motability Foundation has responded to a public consultation which explores potential changes that could be made to the current Personal Independence Payment (PIP) system, including changes to assessments and how support is provided.
We worked closely with Motability Operations, the company who deliver the Motability Scheme, drawing on their knowledge of the Scheme and the 760,000 people who use it, and more widely on our research and work with disabled people, disabled people’s organisations, stakeholders and industry.
The consultation (known as a Green Paper) was published under the last Government, who said they wanted to design a welfare system, that is fit for the future, finding ways of making the system work better for those with the most severe disabilities and health conditions.
The questions they asked explore options such as linking assessments to a person’s condition, introducing one-off grants, vouchers and or reimbursing claimants for purchases of aids, appliances, or services.
In our response, we highlight the value of the Motability Scheme to disabled people and the wider economy, and why it’s important that any changes to the current PIP system don’t put the smooth functioning of the Scheme at risk.
At the Motability Foundation, we know that disabled people face additional costs and barriers, especially when travelling, and the Motability Scheme is one important way to keep them moving.
Our research and innovation work shows how important it is to recognise the diversity within disability and how two people with the same condition may have completely different mobility requirements.
Our evidence submitted in the consultation suggests PIP assessments based on condition alone would not be sufficient to identify which disabled people would most benefit from access to mobility benefits.
We look forward to the Government’s response to the consultation, which should be published shortly. Read our full response. (PDF 440.9 KB)
