Motability

This is a specialist car finance scheme specifically designed for disabled people. It is operated by national charity Motability, which also administers the government's Specialised Vehicles Fund.

Qualifying individuals can lease a car, powered wheelchair or scooter using the higher rate mobility share of their disability living allowance in the case of disabled people, or the war pensioners' mobility supplement where older people are concerned.

The programme works by allowing them to exchange their allowance for a mobility package that includes a vehicle, powered wheelchair or scooter, insurance, servicing, tyres, breakdown cover and adaptations such as wheelchair accessible cars.

Contract hire and hire purchase deals are in place, although the company says the majority of those using its services opt for the former. This could be because of its all-inclusive package of insurance, servicing, maintenance and breakdown cover.