Mobility scooters can help users with limited mobility improve their quality of life; a scooter offers the freedom to travel and spend time with loved ones. However, the cost can be a significant barrier for users on a tight budget.
There are several affordable ways you can get a mobility scooter. Whether you need one for a few weeks or years, we have created a guide listing the budget-friendly options and funding methods.
1. Short and long-term hire options
Hiring might be the most cost-effective solution if you need a mobility scooter temporarily, such as for recovery after surgery, a vacation, or short-term illness. We hire out our mobility scooters for as short as two weeks and for as long as you require.
Short-term hire
A short-term hire can be convenient if you have temporary needs because it avoids large upfront costs and offers a flexible contract. Our short-term hires do not require a pre-determined date you wish you return the scooter, and can be returned at any date after your hire.
Long-term hire
The duration of your long-term hire contract can vary; you can choose between a one-year contract or a three-year contract. Long-term hires are a good option if you're unsure about purchasing but need the scooter for an extended period.
What’s included in the hire contract?
A short and long-term hire with Wheelfreedom will include repairs, insurance and replacement if the scooter is damaged, without an additional charge. Long-term hires will also receive complimentary annual servicing by our engineering team, ensuring your scooter is in peak condition throughout your hire. Hiring for the long term allows you to try different products in our Chessington showroom or at your home during a consultation with one of our assessors. Trying a range of products will give you a better understanding of the right features that complement your lifestyle before you purchase.
Hiring is a great option if you prefer spreading the cost through smaller payments, and if you would like us to cover the costs for all services, repairs, and replacements.
2. Apply for Charity Support or Grants
Various charities offer grants for mobility scooters to people who meet specific criteria. Charities might request medical evidence or income details to qualify for their grants. Depending on the grant, it can help alleviate a portion of your scooter’s cost or pay for your scooter in full.
Examples of UK charities that offer grants include the Florence Nightingale Aid in Sickness Trust, which supports individuals of all ages living with illness, and Independence at Home, which helps individuals access mobility equipment through a referral by a healthcare professional.
To access our full list of charities that offer grants for mobility equipment, simply call us on 0800 025 8005 or email enquiries@wheelfreedom.com. Our friendly team will be happy to send you a helpful guide with trusted organisations that may be able to support you.
3. The Motability Scheme
The Motability Scheme is a popular scheme that allows you to lease a mobility scooter using your government mobility benefits.
Who Qualifies?
You may be eligible for the Motability Scheme if you receive one of the following:
Enhanced Rate of the Mobility Component of Personal Independence Payment
Higher Rate Mobility Component of Disability Living Allowance
War Pensioners' Mobility Supplement
Armed Forces Independence Payment
What’s Included in the Lease?
Breakdown cover
Servicing and maintenance
Insurance
There’s usually no upfront payment, and your mobility allowance is paid directly to Motability. To access a mobility scooter through the Motability Scheme, you will need to find a dealer partnered with Motability. As a Motability partner, we offer the flexibility for you to try a range of mobility scooters in our Chessington showroom or at home before deciding which scooter to lease.
4. Government and Local Authority Support
Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG)
This grant is available from local councils and can cover the cost of adaptations or changes in your home, including scooters in some cases. You might be eligible for the DFG if you have age-related needs and require a scooter to live independently in your home. While the DFG offers up to £30,000 per applicant, the amount you can get depends on your income and savings. To apply, please contact your local council.
Direct Payments and Personal Budgets
Your personal budget is the funding allocated by your local council to help cover the cost of any social care and support you require. If you're eligible for care support from your local authority, you can receive direct payments to fund your mobility scooter.
5. Buy a Second-Hand Scooter
Buying a second-hand mobility scooter allows you to own a mobility scooter without paying its full price. A second-hand scooter is a great way to own a scooter if you are not eligible for any grants and you do not prefer hiring. Our range of approved-used mobility scooters comes with a one-year warranty and often offers hundreds off the retail price.
All approved used scooters have been cleaned and serviced by our engineering team to ensure optimal functionality before they go to a new owner. Our engineers will check its battery life and condition, tyres and brakes, electrics and other components of the scooter.
Conclusion
Whether you need a mobility scooter temporarily or are looking for a long-term mobility companion, there are many financing options available to help you stay mobile and independent.
If you need help with finding the right grants or hiring option, we are happy to assist you on 0800 025 8005 or through email enquiries@wheelfreedom.com.