For anyone wishing to still complain to their MP, here is a template
Dear [MP’s Name],
I am writing to raise serious concerns regarding recent and proposed changes to the Motability Scheme, which I believe may be in breach of the Equality Act 2010 and risk causing significant harm to disabled people.
The changes include:
* The introduction of telematics monitoring (via the DriveSmart app), which penalises drivers for travelling longer than one hour without stopping;
* Penalties for driving at night beyond certain times;
* A restriction within DriveSmart limiting users to a maximum of six journeys per day;
* A proposed reduction in annual mileage allowance from 60,000 miles to 30,000 miles (from July 2026);
* A substantial increase in excess mileage charges from approximately 5p to 25p per mile.
Taken together, these measures represent a significant and concerning shift in how disabled people are able to use their vehicles.
Firstly, they appear to constitute **indirect discrimination**, as they disproportionately impact disabled individuals who rely on their vehicles as a necessity rather than a choice. A limit of six journeys per day fails to reflect the reality of many disabled people’s lives, where multiple short trips may be required for medical needs, caring responsibilities, or daily living activities.
Secondly, the policies may amount to **discrimination arising from disability**, as they penalise behaviours that are directly linked to disability-related needs. For example, continuing to drive beyond one hour may be necessary to reach a safe stopping point, and making multiple journeys in a day may be unavoidable depending on individual circumstances.
There are also clear **safety risks**. On many A, B, and C class roads—particularly in rural areas—there are no safe or well-lit places to stop. Drivers may therefore be forced to choose between stopping in unsafe conditions (with risks from passing vehicles, animals, or unknown individuals) or continuing to drive and being penalised. Similarly, restricting journeys or discouraging travel at certain times may interfere with individuals’ ability to travel safely when it best suits their needs.
Furthermore, the use of rigid, automated enforcement through telematics systems demonstrates a failure to make **reasonable adjustments**, as required under the Equality Act. Disabled individuals have diverse and often complex needs, and a blanket “one-size-fits-all” approach—particularly one that limits journeys, duration, and timing—fails to accommodate those differences.
The proposed halving of mileage and the fivefold increase in excess mileage charges will also have a severe financial impact, particularly on those who rely solely on disability benefits. These changes risk undermining the fundamental purpose of the Motability Scheme, which is to promote independence and mobility for disabled people.
Given the seriousness of these concerns, I would ask that you:
1. Raise this matter with the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions;
2. Seek confirmation as to whether a full Equality Impact Assessment has been undertaken;
3. Request that these measures, including the DriveSmart restrictions, are suspended pending proper review;
4. Consider the broader implications for disabled people both within your constituency and nationally.
This is not simply a policy issue—it is a matter of equality, safety, and basic fairness. The cumulative effect of these changes risks significantly restricting the independence of disabled people across the UK.
I would welcome your support in ensuring that these concerns are properly investigated and addressed.
I look forward to your response.
Yours sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Address / Postcode]