SIA statement on today’s budget and changes to the Motability Scheme

Today’s Budget confirms a significant change for disabled people who rely on the Motability Scheme. The Government will remove VAT relief on new Motability vehicle leases, increasing the overall cost of accessing a suitable vehicle.

This follows Motability Operations’ own announcement, made just before the Budget, that several higher-spec cars, including BMW, Mercedes, Audi, and Lexus will be removed from the scheme.

For many people with a spinal cord injury, these are not “luxury” cars.

They are often the only vehicles that:

• can safely carry a wheelchair,
• accommodate hoists or specialist equipment,
• or be adapted for hand controls and other essential modifications.

Taken together, these changes risk:

• higher advance payments and lease costs,
• fewer vehicles that meet disabled people’s physical and medical needs,
• reduced independence for thousands of people who rely on Motability to work, travel, and take part in daily life.

SIA calls on the Government and Motability Operations to:

• protect access to wheelchair-accessible and adapted vehicles.
• ensure affordability is not compromised.
• guarantee that disabled people are properly consulted before further reforms are made.

Mobility is not a luxury; it is a lifeline.

The ability to travel to hospital appointments, get to work, visit family, or simply live with dignity should never be put at risk.

SIA will continue monitoring the impact of these changes closely. We will stand with our community, raise concerns directly with policymakers, and ensure the voices of people with spinal cord injury are heard loud and clear.

If you have been affected by today’s announcements and want to share your experience, please get in touch with us. Your voice matters.