Given the continued uncertainty created by Coronavirus here in the UK Motability (the Charity) have decided to temporarily close their doors and pause all applications from customers for charitable grants.
In a statement released on the Motability website last week, the organisation confirmed that they were pausing all applications for individual charitable grants until further notice. The statement to applicants went on to say:
"Arrangements are in place to keep any correspondence we receive secure until we are able to return to the office. We will contact you as soon as we can when we recommence grant-making.
The suspension of individual grant-making by Motability, the Charity, does not in any way impact the running of the Motability Scheme which is run by an outsourced company, Motability Operations"
Motability have put together a handy Q&A to help customers who have questions about how this will affect their application for a charitable grant.
I would like to apply for a grant. What should I do?
We are unable to accept new grant applications whilst our office is closed and you should contact us when our office reopens.
I sent in my application form but haven’t heard anything?
If we received your application before the office closure you will have been contacted to let you know we have received it. If you have submitted an online application you will have seen an automatic confirmation that it was received. When the office reopens we will contact you to let you know when you can expect an update on your application. Royal Mail are holding any post that they have been unable to deliver due to the closure. We will contact you to confirm receipt when the office reopens.
I need to provide you with some additional information or a demonstration report for my application for a grant. How can I do this?
Whilst the office is closed, please do not send any additional information. Please continue to check our website for the latest information about our service and availability. Royal Mail are holding any post that they have been unable to deliver due to the closure. We will contact you to confirm receipt when the office reopens.
I am waiting for a decision on my grant application, when will I hear from you?
We are currently unable to review any applications whilst our office is closed.
I have received a letter confirming my grant award but I have questions.
We are currently unable to answer questions whilst our office is closed.
I have an appointment with a Mobility Driving Advisor but I would like to cancel / reschedule it.
If you would like to reschedule your appointment you can call your Mobility Driving Advisor directly.
I have been awarded a grant for my driving lessons. Can I continue to book and take lessons?
Following Government advice, and to ensure the safety of driving instructors and pupils, all driving lessons are now suspended for the foreseeable future. If there are any changes or additions needed in relation to your lessons that can only be dealt with by Motability, the Charity, we will be unable to review these whilst our office is closed.
Please continue to check the Motability charity website for the latest information.
Motability offer charitable grants to disabled people who would otherwise be unable to afford what they need to get around and retain their independence.
These grants can be used to help fund a range of different needs, including help to pay for cars with higher Advance Payments, help with the costs of any adaptations and assistance with the cost of driving lessons.
Charitable Grants Through Motability
You can find more information about the financial support available to Motability customers on the Motability website.