May 2024 - Monarch Mobility

For individuals with disabilities, mobility scooters aren’t just important; they’re a lifeline to on-the-go independence.

However, for most, the financial challenges involved in acquiring a mobility scooter can make it difficult to obtain the right equipment.

From the higher cost of living to the up-front price of the scooter, it can add up to being quite expensive to maintain your independence. For many, this cost can be out of financial reach – which is why the various disability grants for adults are available to help alleviate these costs.

If you’re wondering how to get a free mobility scooter, or are wondering about accessible vehicle grants, this article will outline all of the government grants, schemes and charities that could help you fund your mobility scooter.

What are disability grants?

Disability grants are designed to help disabled people with their everyday lives, from financially supporting their independence to revitalising their lifestyle with the right mobility equipment, like a mobility scooter.

These mobility grants for disabled individuals make a huge difference to their quality of life and help support their day-to-day activities and routines.

Grants for mobility scooters: what am I entitled to?

Different mobility scooter grants often have different eligibility criteria. You may be able to get funding towards a new scooter, or get a mobility scooter for free, depending on the criteria. However, specific traits and conditions might make someone eligible for most, such as having a permanent disability and receiving disability benefits (such as PIP).

What are mobility scooter government grants?

While mobility scooters are not available on the NHS, help can be found elsewhere in the form of government grants.

Currently, in the UK, different types of government grants are available for mobility scooters. Some of the key government programmes that offer these beneficial grants are the Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) and the Access-To-Work Scheme.

Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) – Government Grant

The Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) is a government-funded program in the UK that provides financial assistance to disabled individuals. These funds can go towards beneficial adaptations that can improve mobility independence within the home and mobility equipment to assist outdoors also. The grant is available to all disabled people who need mobility support, and the amount awarded depends on your disability needs and household income.

Access-to-Work Scheme – Government Grant

The Access-to-Work scheme is a government initiative in the UK that provides practical and financial support to disabled individuals who are employed or seeking employment. It helps cover the costs of workplace adjustments, such as assistive technology, equipment, travel expenses, and personal support services.

This support ensures that disabled employees can perform their jobs effectively and maintain their employment with a strong quality of life. This scheme is specifically available to those over 16 and can significantly improve access to jobs and career prospects.

Mobility grant application process: What to expect

What should you expect when applying for a government grant for a mobility scooter? Here are some steps you’ll need to consider before and during your application for a mobility grant:

Research available grants and eligibility requirements
Gather necessary documentation (e.g., medical records, proof of income)
Complete the application forms
Submit the application and any required supporting documents.
Wait for approval and carry out the next steps of receiving your mobility equipment grant (such as assessments or home-visit)

Important note: For a successful application, provide accurate information at every step, and seek assistance from support organisations if needed.

Mobility scooter charities

If you are looking for support on your mobility scooter equipment, there are plenty of charities offering mobility scooter grants in the UK.

There may even be smaller charities in your local area that can help support you with the cost of a mobility scooter.

MS Society

The MS Society provides grants specifically for people with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) or those who care for someone with MS in the UK. These grants can be used to purchase mobility scooters, helping to enhance independence and quality of life.

Phone: 0808 800 8000

The Mobility Trust

The Mobility Trust aims to assist individuals with severe disabilities who cannot obtain equipment through other means. They require an assessment with an Occupational Therapist to determine eligibility and the specific needs of the applicant.

Phone: 0118 984 2588

BLESMA

BLESMA supports current and ex-servicemen and women who have suffered life-changing injuries. They offer financial aid for mobility scooters based on individual needs and circumstances.

Phone: 020 8590 1123

The Hospital Saturday Fund

The Hospital Saturday Fund offers grants for specialised mobility equipment to individuals in the UK and the Republic of Ireland. These grants help cover the cost of mobility scooters and other essential equipment.

Phone: 020 7202 1365

Family Fund

Family Fund provides grants for families raising disabled children or young people. They offer financial aid for purchasing mobility scooters and other aids to improve the mobility and independence of young individuals.

Phone: 01904 550055

SSAFA (Soldiers, Sailors, Air Force Association)

The SSAFA Charity provides disability support to those who served in the armed forces, veterans, and armed forces families. This charity can additionally assist with the costs of mobility scooters to ensure ex-army, ex-RAF, and ex-Navy individuals remain independent in their everyday lives.

Phone: 0800 731 4880

Mobility scooter schemes

There are various mobility scooter schemes available in the UK, and as the UK becomes more supportive of its disabled community, we are already seeing great support systems in place for those in need of equipment.

Mobility scooters on the Motability Scheme

The Motability Scheme allows those with limited mobility the opportunity to gain a mobility scooter through a government-funded mobility allowance. If eligible for this scheme, you could receive a new mobility scooter or a new powerchair every three years from Monarch Mobility.

Mobility scooters on PIP

The Personal Independence Payment (PIP) Scheme offers financial support to those who have a long-term disability or health condition. A benefit of this scheme for those eligible is getting a mobility scooter or piece of mobility equipment for either a reduced cost or no cost at all.

How much PIP you receive is dependent on your mobility level, which requires an application and assessment process to determine. As part of this, you may also be eligible for PIP mobility grants, which can also go towards vehicle or home adaptations to assist you with mobility in all aspects of your daily routine.

Can I get financial help to buy a mobility scooter?

Yes – you can get financial support to buy a mobility scooter from elsewhere also!

There are various avenues for financial help if you are looking to buy a mobility scooter, such as:

Local councils and social services
Charitable organisations and non-profits
Community grants and crowdfunding online

Mobility scooter financial assistance programmes and initiatives are available. Both governmental and non-governmental sources of financial aid for your mobility scooter offer you flexible ways of offsetting costs so that you can enjoy your new routine to the fullest.

Let Monarch Mobility cover your mobility needs

Monarch Mobility is the one of the UK’s top mobility specialists for those in need of high-quality mobility equipment, including mobility scooters, powerchairs and rise and recline chairs.

Thanks to our two-decade’s worth of experience, our team has great expertise in helping individuals find and finance mobility scooters. As one of the UK’s leading mobility specialists, we have support in place to help those who are eligible for financial assistance on mobility scooters.

Grants for mobility scooters for people with disabilities are essential, which is why it’s our company mission to assist as many people as possible with our top-of-the-line range of scooters. Everyday comfort and quality mobility equipment should be accessible to everyone, which is why we personally recommend our Motability Scheme.

Contact us at 0800 002 9633, and we’ll match the best piece of mobility equipment to your disability needs today. Browse our full range of mobility scooters and discover mobility excellence.

Nowadays, the market for mobility products is thriving. With nearly every piece of mobility equipment matching the needs of a particular disability, the UK’s outlook is changing. However, for those looking to purchase a mobility product for the first time, there is so much variety that it may be difficult to distinguish different products from each other and what best fits your disability and budget. It’s okay to admit that not every mobility product out there is for you, so it’s essential to understand how these mobility aids function to upgrade your daily routine effectively.

In our comprehensive mobility guide, we’ll fully explain what mobility scooters and electric wheelchairs are and their differing benefits, so you can decide for yourself which is best suited for you.

What is a mobility scooter?

A mobility scooter is a four-wheeled electric/battery-powered scooter designed to support those with walking impairments or disabilities. With a scooter, you can get around outdoors and enjoy the beauty of the changing seasons – all from a comfortable seat. Much like riding a bike, you can cruise around effortlessly and go wherever you like.

Mobility scooters come in a range of different types to suit various travel preferences. From pavement scooters (also called “Class 2” mobility scooters) that move gently across public paths and shops to road-legal scooters (also called “Class 3” mobility scooters) which you can legally ride on the road, you can go on journeys of all sizes, no matter how long or small. There are even folding mobility scooters that can be lifted easily into your car boot and ultra-lightweight mobility scooters which are travel-friendly. Say hello to stress-free travel on planes and public transport!

When it comes to riding, there are specific rules on where you are allowed to use a mobility scooter. However, as long as you familiarise yourself with them beforehand, you’ll know the correct laws to follow.

The benefits of a mobility scooter

If you’re still not sure whether a mobility scooter is best for you, take a look at the benefits:

You can easily move about outside, go on public paths, in shops and on many modes of public transport – however, we always recommend planning your journey in advance, so you know you’ll be properly accommodated from arrival to departure on trains, coaches or buses.

You can use your mobility scooter confidently in shops, as most establishments are legally obligated to make spaces accessible for mobility users thanks to the 2010 Equality Act in the UK.

You can store your scooter in the car boot with a folding mobility scooter.

You can go on roads with a road-legal mobility scooter – always stay familiar with the highway code for mobility users and what types of roads your scooter is legally allowed on.

You can even travel abroad – lightweight mobility scooters comply with most airlines’ regulations for weight – perfect for when you’re on holiday!

You can charge your mobility scooter or use a battery – depending on your scooter model or type, mobility scooter batteries & chargers are fast and convenient to prepare for longer trips outside.

You can be stylish and make your scooter personal – personalise your mobility scooter with various accessories. From dog trailers for your pooch to protective rain covers for braving tough weather conditions, you can really make your scooter yours!

The maximum speed of a mobility scooter

A road-legal scooter reaches a maximum speed of 6-8 mph, ideal for UK road usage.
A pavement mobility scooter, folding mobility scooter or lightweight scooter reaches a maximum speed of 4mph.

Prices for mobility scooters

What is the cost of mobility scooter? Average prices for mobility scooters typically range from £1,000 to £3,000. However, at Monarch Mobility, we offer prices starting from £900 for quality mobility scooters – we even offer reconditioned mobility scooters in practically unused condition!

What is an electric wheelchair?

Electric wheelchairs, or powerchairs, are a game-changer for those who rely on manual wheelchairs. They provide a sense of freedom and independence by incorporating features similar to those found on mobility scooters. For instance, electric folding powerchairs are foldable, portable and can also be stored in most car boots, the same as a folding mobility scooter.

In contrast to mobility scooters, power wheelchairs typically have better suspension systems and often more areas for customisation, such as moveable swivel seats and storage options. They can also be used indoors and outdoors at fast paces and are designed for full-time use in the house for long periods.

Electric wheelchairs are best suited for those who need frequent motor support at home, indoors and outdoors. Choosing a powerchair allows you to be completely independent in your everyday routine as you have more control over areas you can go to – especially if more indoor spaces are preferred.

The benefits of a powerchair

If you’re still not sure whether an electric wheelchair is best for you, take a look at the benefits:

You can still manually move to use it – electric wheelchairs are all self-propelled and can easily be pushed by hand or by an electric motor.

You can use it at home and around the house – you can use your powerchair at home for hours at a time and safely navigate all indoor spaces.

You can use it outside – an electric wheelchair can reach high speeds and go at a comfortable pace on paths outside

Your powerchair’s energy lasts longer than a mobility scooter – whilst mobility scooters charge lasts a long time, powerchairs typically last longer as they are designed with frequent indoor use in mind – making them perfect to use for work or simply relaxing!

Your powerchair is extra comfortable – each chair is designed for frequent usage, making it extremely comfortable with its full back support.

The maximum speed of an electric wheelchair

Depending on the powerchair model and usage, an electric wheelchair reaches a maximum speed of 4.5-8 mph.

Prices for electric wheelchairs

Average prices for electric wheelchairs typically range from £2,000 to £2,500. However, at Monarch Mobility, we offer prices starting from £1,500 for quality powerchairs.

Take a look at this article if you want to find out whether an electric or manual wheelchair is best for you.

What is the difference between a scooter and a power wheelchair?

To summarise, mobility scooters and electric powerchairs allow you to go outdoors, indoors and to various public places. However, the most discerning difference is their usage and primary function.

Powerchairs are best suited for frequent indoor and outdoor users who require a longer-lasting charge. In contrast, mobility scooters are ideal for outdoor travel for shorter periods. Whilst mobility scooters can navigate accessible indoor spaces, they are only suitable for short and medium-sized trips. They can only frequently be used all day with more charges.

Both a powerchair and a mobility scooter offer endless opportunities for fun and exploration.

Mobility scooter vs electric wheelchair: which is better for you?

Powerchair vs mobility scooter: there is no simple answer. Your choice of mobility aid has a lot to do with your personal disability needs and what makes a welcome difference to your lifestyle. If you want something to offer you more support for your daily routine, a mobility scooter and a powerchair offer that in different measures.

Take a look at our article on How to choose a power wheelchair for more information.

Why not compare the differences between a scooter and a power wheelchair and look through our range of mobility products thoroughly before making a final decision?

Mobility scooters and powerchairs for sale

Whether you’re searching for a mobility scooter or powerchair, we at Monarch Mobility pride ourselves on being experts who can recommend the right mobility aid.

We are a mobility company driven by good old-fashioned family values, and so we understand that the right mobility equipment is a lifeline to those with disabilities. If you are not sure which equipment is best suited for your mobility needs, we can solve your problem directly with our mobility advice and match your requirements to a mobility aid.

Ready to buy a mobility scooter or powerchair? Contact us today at 0800 002 9633 with any product queries you may have, and we’ll happily advise you on the best mobility solution for your needs.

You could be entitled to an equipment grant for your mobility aid.

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