Criteria for WAV's

[Flutey]

Hi Everyone,

I currently have a vehicle on the motability scheme which is only a year and a half old. I have had several cars on the scheme over the years but this time I am starting to experience a lot of problems getting in and out of my car. I have a top box for my wheelchair.

I have heard (yesterday actually) from a friend that there is strict criteria to access a WAV to drive from your wheelchair. I have scoured the internet to see if such criteria such as, you have to be working, doing voluntary work, look after someone, for in order to obtain a WAV via Motability.

I have also realised that only certain wheelchairs are suitable for certain WAV's. Is there any where I can find a list of wheelchairs compatible to WAVs and does anyone know whether there is a criteria for accessing a WAV via Motability other than receiving Mobility allowance and have the down payment.

Would be grateful if someone could provide me with any information. Thanks.

Flutey

[Burgerman]

As far as eligibility for one on motability I dont know. You might need to email or call them.

But its usually a long wait, a big fight.

As far as "only certain chairs" is concerened, then it depends on many factors. A van like mine is accessible as a drive from wc van with lowered floor etc and can take almost any powerchair. Obviously the smaller, shorter, narrower that chair is the easier for manoevering about inside. But MANY supposed drive from vehicles are not usable unless you use a low powerchair with small batteries, making the chair slow or useless outdoors.

[Anderida]

There are no additional criteria to access a driver WAV through Motability other than the Higher rate DLA Mobility component and the Advance Payment.

The people who convert the vehicle will be able to advise on suitable wheelchairs and I believe will tailor the WAV to your current chair if at all possible. I'm sure someone here will correct me if I'm wrong.

Before considering WAVs perhaps check if there are aids that would make getting in and out of your car easier for you.

[Anderida]

BM beat me to it!!

[Martin O Refurbisher]

Motoability have a scoring system to determine eligibility for a WAV, after which, there is an assessment. I am having mine tomorrow, so can report on it after.

Best,

Martin

[Martin O Refurbisher]

Well, I'm told I passed - in 6 months time, I am to expect a Mercedes Sprinter with rear power lift, and remote controlled power opening doors - looks grat, but its now a 6 week wait for the approval letter!

Best,

Martin

[Burgerman]

So if I wanted a similar car or say a lowered floor VW 3.2V6 Caravelle in black with 20 inch wheels, how does it work?

Deposit?
How many years?
Residual value?
Chance to buy? Can it be aranged BEFORE I sign up? IE would it be worth treating it as mine or as a rental car?
etc...

[Flutey]

Thanks for the input everyone. Great to hear you were successful Martin. Will look into things for myself. Great site everyone.

[Martin O Refurbisher]

BM
when I get out of hosp in a few days I'll email everything to you.
best
Martin

[Martin O Refurbisher]

BM
Advance pament c £10-15k uses about 1/2 DLA to fund 5/7 yar lease. Told buyout possible.
No residual pyment, grants possible.
best

Martin

[Burgerman]

Thanks. I cant afford motobility then!

[Martin O Refurbisher]

BM
I am not sure. I will get back to you when I have the letter.
Best

Martin

[marillion2]

Motability do a grant scheme depending on income & savings, I was lucky enough to get 100% grant for the Vivaro, which would have cost me £4500.00 & surrendering full mobility at £51 per week over 5 years lease, works out at under £8 per day, the price of a couple of packs of fags a day!