Hi, my name is Goj72000! Motability offering vehicle that isn't right for my lifestyle, any advice?

Goj72000

Motability

I have been a member of the Motability scheme for more than 30 years and it has made a massive difference to my life in so many ways it is difficult to put in to words, but I am going to try.

I have had 5 vehicles in that time: Nissan Micra, 2 Vauxhall Astra (Estate) and 2 Mercedes Sprinter vans. Each vehicle opened up opportunities to me that otherwise would have been impossible.

Nissan Micra 5 year contract

This was my first vehicle and was at a time in my life when a lot of my friends had their own vehicles but if we were going anywhere I had to take my manual wheelchair because my powerchair would not fit in theirs. This meant that I also had to rely on them pushing me. My own vehicle meant that this was no longer the case, this gave me the independence to move where I wanted, when I wanted. Although this vehicle served me well, when my powerchair was loaded I could only take 1 passenger with me.

Vauxhall Astra (Estate) 5 year contract (X2)

These were my second and third vehicles.

By his time I had been driving for 5 years which had given me more confidence on the roads, so a bigger vehicle was not a problem. In fact, quite the opposite, it meant I could take more passengers with me and/or take more equipment so I could now go on holidays taking all the things I need.

Mercedes Sprinter 8 years (4th vehicle) 8 years, (5th vehicle) 8 years ongoing.

4th and Current vehicles

These 2 vans have been amazing, opening opportunities that improved my life so much. They were both adapted so I could drive while sitting in my wheelchair. The back doors and tail lift operated by remote control along with the automatic clamping system that secured my wheelchair in place meant that I did not need any assistance at all to get in, I was fully independent. I found employment and was able to go where I wanted, whether it be to work or pleasure.

I now regularly go camping and over the last 3 years have become heavily involved with the ‘Vanlife’ community, attending numerous festivals. I am passionate about this activity and I would really like to continue. I also intend starting a YouTube channel that shows having a disability does not stop you from living an active life, hopefully inspiring others. I went through some bad times but being able to get out and meet new people, making a lot of new friends on the way has improved my mental health substantially. 

In warmer times I enjoy fishing at least once a week and need to take extra equipment with me due to my disability, when it gets colder we go to places that are indoors, 10 pin bowling for example. I also regularly look after my friend’s autistic daughter 3-6 hours a week, taking her to places such as parks, the cinema and museums.

Each vehicle has opened new roads for me, both metaphorically and in reality. 

The Motability Scheme has improved my life in so many ways that are impossible to put in to words.

The lease is due to run out on my latest vehicle is due to run out and Motability have refused to fund a new vehicle to the same standard(Which I have been driving for approximately 17 years) because I no longer work.

They have offered to fund a Citroen Berlingo where I would have to sit in the back and not able to drive. This vehicle is not suitable for my needs but because I no longer work that is all they will offer. It is too small and I would not be able to carry all the equipment I need to continue living the life I am currently living, an independent life with stimulating experiences where I am living and not just existing.

Motability have said this is their final decision.

Any advice?

Kimmy87

Would it be an option to leave the scheme, and fund a suitable vehicle yourself with the weekly mobility PIP payments?

poppy123456

Can the vehicle be adapted for you to be able to sit in the drivers seat to drive?
What sort of equipment do you carry around? is this because of your disability that you need to take it with you?

Goj72000

I take my power wheelchair plus manual. Power wheelchair and me weigh just over 165kg so if it breaks down my carers would not be able to push me in that. I also take my portable hoist and portable (flushable) toilet with me if I’m going away or out for the day, it is so difficult to find a truly accessible toilet and is an invisible barrier to many disabled people.

Goj72000

Hi Kimmy87

Thank you for reply in but that is something that I could not afford to do. They vehicle I need has to be heavily adapted.

poppy123456

Would it be possible to buy your current vehicle from motability?