Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, how many people have successfully appealed the removal of their place on the Motability Scheme under the Personal Independence Payment.

Disability benefit claimants are able to apply for a vehicle under the Motability Scheme if they are in receipt of Higher Rate Mobility in DLA or Enhanced Rate Mobility in PIP. If the claimant loses their entitlement to these components, they will no longer be eligible for a vehicle under the Motability Scheme. If a claimant is not satisfied with the original decision, they are able to request a Mandatory Reconsideration and if, following the Mandatory Reconsideration they are still not satisfied, they can appeal to the First-Tier Tribunal.

The number of Motability Scheme customers who successfully appeal following a decision which removes Enhanced Rate Mobility (PIP) or Higher Rate Mobility (DLA) is not held by the Department.

The Department worked closely with Motability to introduce a £175 million Transitional Support package for people leaving the scheme following PIP reassessment paid for by Motability and at no cost to the taxpayer. This gives significant help:

• Claimants can keep their car for up to 3 months after an initial decision.
• They are given the option to buy their Scheme vehicle.
• Choice of up to £2,000 lump sum payment OR 6 ½ month lease extension with a smaller support payment.
• Motability can help to pay to adapt new, non-scheme cars and gives and additional help and advice (on insurance and adaptations).
• This package has already helped 84% claimants to buy a used car.