Kay Millar, a 29-year-old teacher from Frome, Somerset, who uses a wheelchair, warns that recent changes to the Motability scheme will force her—and many others—into isolation. With mileage allowances being reduced and steep charges for exceeding limits starting later this year, Kay says she will no longer be able to work or maintain her social connections.
A passionate athlete and dedicated educator, Kay’s aspirations to retrain as a play therapist are now under threat. She currently relies on a Vauxhall Grandland large enough to accommodate her assistance dog, two wheelchairs, and a power attachment. Due to limb paralysis and a movement disorder, she depends on this vehicle for mobility and independence.
“The progress we’ve made in integrating disabled people into society is in jeopardy,” Kay told Talk to the Press. “These changes will push people back into their homes. Without a suitable car, I can’t get out to work or see friends. Even if I do leave the house, the physical toll is immense—pain, fatigue, and discomfort make it not worth the effort.”
The Motability scheme currently helps about 860,000 people across the UK exchange disability benefits for vehicle leases. However, from July 1, new rules will cap mileage at 10,000 miles per year, with a 25p charge per mile for anything over 30,000 miles in a three-year lease. This is a significant tightening from the existing limit of 60,000 miles before additional fees apply.
Kay has already driven 42,000 miles two and a half years into her lease. Under the new rules, her excess mileage would cost around £3,000, which she cannot afford on her limited income. Two heart attacks have forced her to reduce her teaching hours, making finances even tighter.
Active in para-surfing and wheelchair basketball, Kay often travels long distances for sport and work. Her job involves teaching children across several counties, many of whom are outside mainstream education. She also supports vulnerable family members who cannot visit her without transportation.
Public transport is not a viable option for Kay due to safety and accessibility concerns, despite her advocacy for disability issues.
Kay is particularly concerned that these cost increases will derail her plans to attend a master’s course in Newport, a crucial step toward becoming a play therapist—a career shift recommended by doctors due to her physical health constraints.
Motability representatives acknowledge the difficult changes stem from new government taxes. They emphasize efforts to limit the financial impact by reducing expected increases to an average of £400 and clarifying that current leases remain unaffected. The scheme is also introducing an exceptions process for those with exceptional mileage needs.
Still, for Kay and many others, these alterations threaten crucial independence, livelihoods, and wellbeing.