Expert car picks from the new Motability Scheme price list
What’s inside?
• Motability Scheme Live • Accessible holidays in the UK
• RAC reviews: 3 hybrid cars to consider • What makes a WAV different?
• How the new car market is changing in 2025
JULY 2025
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Motability Scheme Live: What to expect at our upcoming events
Over 7,000 of you joined us at Motability Scheme Live in Birmingham. Now we’re getting ready to welcome even more visitors this summer at our Harrogate and Northern Ireland events. Here’s what’s coming up and how to make the most of your visit.
A brilliant start to our new Motability Scheme Live 2025 events
We kicked off the year with two packed days at the NEC in May. Visitors saw over 80 vehicles on display, including electric cars, Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles (WAVs), scooters and powered wheelchairs.
There were over 450 test
drives, and the Team BRIT racing simulator gave people the chance to experience motorsport up close. Many visitors also downloaded the event app to help them plan their day and get around the venue more easily.
One visitor said: “I saw everything I wanted to and more.” Another told us: “By attending, I got to check
which cars suited my needs and budget. I left knowing exactly what I wanted to order.”
We also introduced a new showcase comparing WAVs and cars with adaptations. It helped visitors see what’d work best for them and it’s coming to all our remaining events this year.
Motability Scheme Live HARROGATE
Yorkshire Event Centre
Friday 1 & Saturday 2 August
Motability Scheme Live NORTHERN IRELAND
Eikon Exhibition Centre, Lisburn
Friday 19 & Saturday 20 September
Why visit?
Whether you’re already a Scheme customer or just curious to find out more, our events are a great way to explore your options in person.
Here’s what you can expect at both Harrogate and Northern Ireland:
- See a wide range of cars, Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles (WAVs) and adaptations
- Explore over 35 powered wheelchairs and scooters and try them out on our indoor track
- Take a test drive in adapted and electric vehicles (just remember your driving licence)
- Learn more about home and public charging at the Motability Scheme
Information Hub, with advice from Ohme and BP Pulse
- Speak to friendly Scheme specialists who can answer your questions and help you find what suits you best
- Visit the Team BRIT stand, the world’s only competitive alldisabled racing team and enter their simulator competition
Both events also include our new WAV and adaptation showcase, to help you understand what’s right for your mobility needs.
Make the most of your day
Here’s how to get ready:
- Download the Motability Scheme Live app (App Store and Google Play store) to help you plan your visit and find your way around the venue
- Bring your event barcode (on email or by post) to scan when you arrive
- All our events are free, accessible and open to everyone. We’d love to see you there.
The new fully electric T03
Now available with nil advance payment*
*Terms and conditions apply. Offer may be varied and withdrawn at any time. Vehicles only available through Motability acredited participating Leapmotor retailers and are not available in conjunction with any other. Advance payments are correct at time of publishing and are subject to orders being placed between 1 July - 30 September 2025.
mobility
Expert car picks from the new Motability Scheme price list
The new car market is changing in 2025. The drive to zero emissions means the car industry is switching over to electric. Lots of new electric cars, also known as EVs, are now being launched. The UK’s commitment to phase out regular petrol and diesel cars from 2030 is driving this.
Many new electric cars are available for low or even no Advance Payment. If you have a driveway, your first electric car lease includes a home charger and standard installation. This is the cheapest charging option. It can save you a lot of money compared to running a petrol or diesel car.
If you don’t have a driveway, you will
Ford Puma
My top choice for No Advance Payment
The Ford Puma is the best-selling new car in the UK. Thousands of customers choose it every month, and they cannot all be wrong! It is the most accessible new Ford on sale, and effectively replaces the famous Ford Fiesta. The Ford Puma still has compact dimensions but its taller body helps make access easier.
get a bp pulse subscription included in your lease instead. This is Britain’s largest public charging network. Some of these chargepoints offer better charging rates, and some are free. All Scheme customers also get a free Motability Go Charge card. This gives access to more than 50,000 public electric car chargers.
However, if you’re not yet ready to make the switch to electric, don’t worry. There’s still a broad range of petrol cars available on the Motability Scheme. This is part of a mission to offer the right car for everyone, no matter what your mobility needs. In this guide, I have included petrolpowered cars with big boots and
economical hybrids that are perfect for the city.
No matter what new Motability Scheme car you choose, you will get the same all-inclusive leasing package. The package covers all the major costs of motoring, including car insurance, servicing and routine repairs. It also includes car tax and breakdown cover. This makes it the cheapest way to drive a new car in the UK.
These are my seven top choices of cars this quarter. They show the sheer breadth of choice available on the Scheme to suit all independent mobility needs. Read on to be inspired about what could be your next new car!
The Ford Puma is a stylish and good-looking small SUV. The curvaceous design is a real highlight. The facelifted interior is more high-tech, too. A large touchscreen dominates the dashboard, while sturdy steering wheel buttons help with ease of use. The Ford Puma has a good driving position and decent rear seat space. Boot space is a real highlight, with 456 litres of space making it bigger than many much larger cars. The huge ‘MegaBox’ below the boot floor is a clever practical touch too. This Ford Puma uses the latest mHEV hybrid petrol engine, giving everyday power and official fuel economy of more than 52mpg. Alternatives to consider: The Nissan Juke is another stylish small SUV that is available for no Advance Payment. A rival to the Ford Puma, it has the added appeal of being built in Britain. This version has the latest easier-to-use interior and is available in some bright and fun paint colours.
Kia Sorento
My top choice of 7-seater £3,999 Advance Payment
The Kia Sorento is a full-size 7-seater SUV with a premium appearance that’s a match for posh brands such as BMW and Mercedes-Benz. It has recently been facelifted, so has the firm’s latest high-tech front end design. It was also improved within, and there were updates below the surface, too.
This big, tall SUV has high seats across all three rows, giving passengers a superb view out. It feels safe and secure as a result. There’s lots of legroom in the middle row, and the two seats in the third row can also accommodate adults. All seats fold flat easily, with an auto-fold function for the sliding second-row seats. ISOFIX child seat top tethers feature in both second and third row seats. The Kia Sorento has premium car levels of equipment. The air conditioning extends to rear seat passengers, and the touchscreen system has wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This version has the petrol hybrid engine, with a standard automatic gearbox. It has plenty of power to handle seven-up drives. The clever hybrid system gives combined fuel economy of over 42mpg as well. As a full hybrid, it doesn’t need to be plugged in, either. Alternatives to consider: If you want a 7-seater on the Motability Scheme for no Advance Payment, look no further than the Dacia Jogger. It has three rows of seats, giving room for up to seven people. They are easy to remove too, so you benefit from a large boot when you don’t need a 7-seater.
Honda Jazz
My top choice for city driving No Advance Payment
The Honda Jazz is a car that’s really well-liked by its owners. Many of them stick with the Jazz because no other new car on sale can match its appeal. The latest Honda Jazz has a hybrid engine, which combines great economy with eco-friendly low-speed electric driving.
The Honda Jazz is a great car for city driving because of its design. At less than 4.1 metres long, it is a compact size, yet interior space is superb. Rear seat space is particularly surprising, even for tall adults. The 304-litre boot is practical, and the clever ‘Magic Seats’ flip and fold in several useful configurations. You definitely should check them out in the dealer showroom! Another Honda Jazz strong point is excellent visibility. The windscreen is thoughtfully designed to give excellent front and side vision, so you have a panoramic view of what’s ahead. This makes it extremely easy to drive, even on busy city roads. The engine is punchy, and the automatic transmission makes it easy to drive. Official fuel economy of nearly 63mpg is another strong suit. Your motoring costs could be cut significantly. The Jazz is particularly efficient in the city thanks to its ability to automatically switch into electric mode. Alternatives to consider: The Kia Picanto and Hyundai i10 are good choices if you want a really compact car for city driving.
Hyundai Kona Electric
My top choice of electric car No Advance Payment
The Hyundai Kona Electric is an excellent electric car currently available on the Motability Scheme for no Advance Payment. Notably, the design of the Hyundai Kona Electric is almost identical to other petrol and hybrid-powered Kona models. This means you won’t stand out as much for driving an electric car. Some drivers really like this.
The Hyundai Kona Electric is a very modern-looking car. It is well proportioned and the sleek design is a step on from the previous Kona Electric. An overall length of 4.35 metres means its size is well-balanced. The dedicated electric car platform also opens up plenty of space inside. It feels open-plan and airy, with lots of room in both front and rear seats. The generous 466-litre boot expands to 1,300 litres with the rear seats folded. This Hyundai Kona Electric has a good range of 319 miles from its 65.4kWh battery. The sat nav includes a clever function that visually shows you how far you can drive with the remaining charge in the battery. I found this really reassuring. The system will even keep a look-out for nearby chargers as you drive, so you can always be directed to one at the touch of a button. This can help reduce range anxiety. Alternatives to consider: The distinctive-looking Kia EV3 is another family-friendly electric SUV. It is the current World Car of the Year, with more than 100 journalists voting it their pick of all the new cars on sale in 2025.
Skoda Fabia
My top choice for under 25s No Advance Payment
The Skoda Fabia is an excellent small car. It competes in the ‘supermini’ new car sector, and is usefully larger and roomier than many of its rivals. The version I’ve chosen here is the stylish SE Edition, which has useful extra equipment that the under-25s will find really useful.
This Skoda Fabia is fitted with the 1.0-litre TSI 116 petrol engine. Because it is turbocharged, it has reassuring pulling power, so it won’t feel out of its depth even on the motorway. Young drivers will like the confidence this provides. The engine is great on fuel too, averaging nearly 56mpg on the official fuel economy test. This Skoda Fabia SE Edition has a large touchscreen display in the centre of the dash. It wirelessly links with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay devices, which is a really useful feature. I like the stylish two-spoke steering wheel, and keyless engine start/stop adds to its convenience. There are also few small cars as roomy as this. Front and rear seat space is excellent and the 380-litre boot is vast. It’s a similar size to that in a Volkswagen Golf, a car from the class above. Alternatives to consider: The Hyundai Bayon is another small car that thinks big. It has an airy feel inside and its boot is bigger than many other small cars. It is another car available on the Motability Scheme for no Advance Payment. What’s more, under-25s can drive it.
Renault Captur
My top choice of big boot No Advance Payment
The Renault Captur is a well-loved small SUV from the French brand. It is compact on the outside, measuring a city-friendly 4,239mm long. But it is bigger where it matters, on the inside. Not only does it have a roomy interior, it also has a surprisingly big boot.
The Renault Captur is a winner for big boot space. It has a standard sliding rear seat, which moves backwards and forwards through a 160mm range. Even with the seat slid fully back, for maximum rear legroom, the boot has a 484-litre capacity. Boot space with the rear seat slid fully forwards grows to a remarkable 616 litres. That’s bigger than many much larger full-size SUVs! Fold the rear seat down, and it expands to a huge 1,596 litres.The Renault Captur is appealing in other ways. The economical 1.0-litre turbo petrol engine officially returns almost 48mpg. The portrait-format touchscreen is easy to use and uses Google built-in tech. This brings Google Maps, the Google Assistant and a choice of more than 50 apps from the Google Play store. I found the Renault Captur fun to drive too, with well-judged ride comfort and good stability on the motorway. Alternatives to consider: The KGM Tivoli is another interesting small SUV with a big boot. It has over 420 litres of space, and the well-shaped, high-set load area is easy to access as well.
Hyundai Inster
My top choice for best accessibility No Advance Payment
The Hyundai Inster is a distinctive small electric car with stylish crossover SUV appearance. It measures just 3,825mm long, making it one of the most compact new cars on the outside. This is great news for accessibility in crowded city centres, and there are even more surprises on the inside.
The Hyundai Inster’s tall design means many people find it really easy to get in and out of. The seats are high off the ground and the tall door openings make it simple to step in and out. The seats are generously sized and as comfortably supportive as a much larger car. I found the view out was excellent too, with great visibility over the bonnet and through the side windows. Even rear seat space is good. The rear seats fold fully flat, giving 1,059 litres of load space. The front passenger seat can fold fully flat, too. This Hyundai Inster has the 49kWh Long Range battery. It gives an official range of up to 223 miles in this well-equipped ‘2’ grade. Using a public rapid charger, it can go from 10% to 80% charge in just 30 minutes. It’s a lovely car to drive, feeling grown up and refined. I like the upmarket dashboard too, which takes influence from Hyundai’s larger SUVs. Alternatives to consider: The Dacia Sandero Stepway is another small car with good accessibility. Compared to the regular Sandero, it has raised suspension, so is higher off the ground. This helps make it easier to get in and out of.
Accessible Holidays in the UK
It can be hard to find a summer holiday that works for all the family, including those with disabilities. To help you make the perfect choice, Rough Guides has picked some of the best family-friendly trips to suit all tastes. From city-centre breaks to fun in the sun by the sea to the wooded wilds of the countryside, there’s bound to be something that appeals to everyone.
ENGLAND
Soaking in the Lake District
Overlooking stunning Lake Windermere, The Ro Hotel makes an excellent base for active, accessible holidays. There are two accessible rooms available on the ground floor, with wet room-style bathrooms with grab rails. The hotel is built on a slope but is easily accessible by car. The top car park, which has a daily charge, has wheelchair-accessible spaces. Remember to book one when reserving your room.
To get out onto the water, take a steamer boat ride (Easter to late Oct) from Bowness with Windermere Lake Cruises. The MV Swift vessel has step-free access to the wheelchair-friendly on-board toilets, and you’ll find a RADAR-accessible toilet on or near every pier the company uses. Near the pier is the accessible Windermere Jetty Museum and Café, which showcases the history of boating on England’s longest lake. A little further afield, on the lake’s northwestern shore, is the National Trust’s Wray castle and estate. Visit the boathouse, miniature harbour, arboretum and café, and admire the beautiful neo-Gothic castle from the trails around the grounds, accessible with an all-terrain mobility scooter which is available for hire. Best for all-ages outdoor fun.
Back to nature in Cornwall
With ten wonderful wooded sites around England, Scotland and Wales, Forest Lodge holidays are a great way to get back to nature. The lodges are all set in beautiful woodland, and are designed to make the most of the local environment. The Deerpark site in Cornwall is a lovely example, set in a wooded valley that was once the site of a gunpowder mill. Wander around the woods and you may spot nesting buzzards, or just sit quietly on your deck and woodpeckers, robins and other birdlife will come to you. The lodges come with all home comforts, such as a wood-burner and a hot tub on the deck where you can sit back and watch the stars.
All the sites have at least one specially adapted lodge, with an accessibility hoist for those with mobility issues to access the hot tubs, a wet room and lowered kitchen facilities. At Deerpark, the accessible lodge is close to the Forest Hub, shop and reception building. The lodge has drive-in access, an extra-large terrace overlooking a pond, and car parking with direct access for wheelchairs. The wooded areas of the Deerpark site are quite steep so wheelchair users will have to stick to the main paths which are mostly flat and level. Best for relaxing wildlife adventures.
Bournemouth’s blissful beach huts
The seven-mile-long sandy Bournemouth beach was voted Tripadvisor’s top UK beach of 2019, and Bournemouth Beach Lodges have prime position on it. The 24 luxury beach huts enjoy direct access to the promenade and the sand, as well stunning views over to the Isle of Wight and the Purbecks from their decks. There is a sand wheelchair available for hire from Bournemouth Beach Office, and the Pier is wheelchair accessible. Other accessible attractions include the Oceanarium and the mini golf course at Bournemouth Lower Gardens. The lodges are equipped with a well-designed galley-style kitchen, bathroom, trifold doors out onto the deck and a seafront barbecue area.
Car
invictamotors.co.uk
The adapted hut is accessible via a series of ramps, and has a large wet room-style shower area with enough space on the ground floor for wheelchairs to manoeuvre. There’s a pull-out double bed on the ground floor, but the other beds are in a mezzanine loft space, which is accessed by a steep ladder, so they’re not suitable for those with mobility issues. Access to the site can be challenging so it’s advised to call ahead to discuss requirements. Best for sun-seeking beachgoers.
Idyllic countryside close to London
Relax in the peaceful countryside, without straying too far from the capital, at Petasfield Cottages. These self-catering, wheelchair-accessible holiday cottages are situated within the grounds of a working riding stables just outside of the market town of Hertford. Designed with accessibility in mind, they have features like wheelin showers, ceiling track hoists that can go into the wet rooms from the bedrooms, grab and safety rails, and bed and toilet seat raisers. Broadwater Cottage also has electrical adjustable sink and hob heights. There is accessible parking at all cottages.
There are plenty of fun things to do within 40 minutes’ drive of the cottages. In Hemel Hempstead, Waterway Experiences offer day trips in their accessible canal boats, so the whole family can have fun going through multiple locks, watching the peacefully passing scenery on the Grand Union Canal, and maybe even having a go at steering. Bookings need to be made a minimum of a month in advance. The Imperial War Museum Duxford is not to be missed if you’re interested in planes or wartime history. The site showcases a huge collection of antique and modern aircrafts, and there’s an option to book a mobility scooter or board the free site transport vehicle with a manual wheelchair. Best for active families.
SCOTLAND
City break in Edinburgh
After London, Edinburgh is the UK’s most popular destination and, despite its hills and cobbled streets, it still makes a great place for a city break. The highlight of the city, of course, is Edinburgh Castle, which is surprisingly accessible for such an ancient building. Disabled visitors can park at the Esplanade, and a mobility car will take you up to the top of the castle if you can’t manage the steep ramps and bumpy cobblestones yourself.
A fun way to visit other sights around the city is on the tram, which is fully accessible for wheelchair users. The longestablished Caledonian Hotel is in a great location for exploring the city centre and has accessible bedrooms with
Car Insurance Adapted
wet room-style bathrooms, accessible changing rooms in the spa, and accessible parking spots. If booking on their website, you need to book a Kind Deluxe room and then call to request it be one of the accessible ones. Best for history buffs.
WALES
Sea and city in Cardiff
To combine staying by the sea with being right in the heart of a capital city, opt for Cardiff. Cardiff has plenty to explore, from fascinating museums and ancient castles to the cutting-edge architecture of the regenerated waterfront. The gleaming Millennium Stadium is where the country’s top rugby is played. Located on the waterfront, the voco St David’s Cardiff hotel has five accessible rooms with wheel-in showers, and accessible parking in the car park. There’s level access into the hotel and a lift to all floors, but the best thing about this place is the sea views from all the rooms.
Don’t miss a visit to the Welsh Senedd, home to the National Assembly for Wales, just a ten-minute flat walk along the waterfront from the hotel. It’s a fascinating contemporary sustainable building, designed to be completely accessible, with lifts, ramps, accessible toilets and wheelchairs to borrow. Best for culture vultures.
NORTHERN IRELAND
Experience the streets of Belfast
Take in the view of the Northern Irish capital from Belfast Castle, its nineteenth-century halls adapted over the years to make the site more accessible. Both the castle and visitor centre are wheelchair-friendly, with lift access to the visitor centre, coffee shop and gardens. There’s also Blue Badge parking. You can also admire the Belfast skyline from the 1568ft (478m) peak of Divis, looming to the west of the city. Have a ramble along the wheelchair-accessible Lough Trail, a 0.9-mile (1.45km) loop from which you can see for miles on a clear day. If you’d rather get into the thick of the city, take a taxi tour in one of the iconic black taxis, which are all wheelchair-accessible. Be sure to make a stop at Titanic Belfast, which has an industry-leading approach to accessibility, to see where the famous ship was made.
The Crowne Plaza Belfast is located in the Lagan Valley Regional Park and has accessible parking spaces, so you can enjoy relaxing natural surroundings just 15 minutes’ drive from the city centre. The hotel’s wheelchair-accessible rooms have wet room-style showers, built-in transfer shower seats, grab bars and handrails throughout the bathroom, and tall toilets. Best for city, sea and countryside all in one.
MOTABILITY OFFER
£1000 towards advance payments on all Omoda Models
ICE Models advance payments £1499
Comfort - £1999 Noble
EV Models £4845
Comfort - £5245 Noble
And now for something a little different... the Omoda 5 SUV
The Omoda 5 aims to offer something just a little different for Motability customers looking a Nissan Qashqai or Hyundai Kona-sized compact family SUV. There’s a choice of petrol or electric powertrains, striking design, all the latest tech and a boot with a low loading lip (so it’s easier to slide heavier items in). If you like the looks, it might be tempting.
Omoda is part of the Chery which is China’s biggest car exporter - quite an achievement when you consider the other brands from this marketnames you might be more familiar with like the SAIC corporation’s MG marque, BYD, GWM Ora and NIO. Unlike in other global markets, ‘Chery’ branding won’t be used in Europe, where the cars from this conglomerate will be marketed under
the Omoda badge, a name derived from two sources; ‘O’ is for ‘oxygen’ (supposed to give an enviro-vibe) and ‘moda’ denotes fashion, apparently keynote for a marque that aims to focus on trendiness.
We’re going to get a whole series of Omoda models over the next few years (most of them EVs) but the first of them is the car we look at here, the Omoda 5, engineered in both combustion and EV forms. It’s a compact crossover aimed at cars like the Nissan Qashqai and the Hyundai Kona. Let’s take a closer look.
The core Omoda 5 models are the most affordable 1.6-litre petrol version and the EV variant. This design has been engineered to accept a petrol Hybrid unit too, so most of the major bases seem to
be covered. The conventional petrol version uses a 1.6-litre four cylinder turbo unit with 187bhp and 275Nm of torque transmitted through the front wheels via a 7-speed dual clutch auto gearbox. The 62mph from rest sprint occupies 7.8s. A four-wheel-drive version is offered in other markets but there’s no sign yet of that being available here.
Handling was developed in Europe and benchmarked against what the brand sees as this car’s closest rival the Hyundai Kona. The suspension, steering and anti-roll bars have all been re-tuned over the Chinese market model to cater for differing European tastes. Don’t expect cuttingedge handling or particularly feelsome steering but the drive dynamics will certainly be class competitive. There
WhAT’S NEw WITH GWM ORA SOUTH WEST
It’s an exciting time at GWM ORA South West, with the recent release of the ORA Funky Cat First Edition+ ! Explore exclusivity with the GWM ORA’s distinctive limited edition model.
What is the ORA Funky Cat First Edition+?
The brand new Special Edition of the ORA Funky Cat is here. There’s a limited number of the new models, making them entirely exclusive.
In addition to some cosmetic and mechanic enhancements, the special model is kitted out with ‘First Edition+’ accessories, including the mats, keys, and a centre console with the edition plaque.
Convenient Comfort
GWM ORA have taken comfort to another level, with heated and massaging seats, a heated steering wheel for those frosty mornings, and memory functions to keep your favourite settings ready for you. Privacy glass and a panoramic sunroof have been added for your comfort, exclusivity, and enjoyment of driving.
Perfecting Practicality
Front sensors have been added to help you navigate those tricky parking spaces, and auto parking assist helps with reversing; backwards driving has never been so forwardthinking! Featuring a new auto-opening tailgate, it’s also a game-changer when it comes to convenience.
The OMODA 5 SUV with sporty design and powerful engine combining style, safety and advanced technology - is now available on the Motability Scheme. In petrol and 100% electric.
The battery capacity in the brand new model is 63kWh, with a WLTP electric range of 260 miles; more than enough to eliminate range anxiety!
Exclusive Elements
There are a number of colourways available, including Aurora Green and Moonlight White, Mars Red, Starry Black, and Nebula Green; the ORA Funky Cat promises individuality. With the additions in the First Edition+, including the irresistible comfort features, the new model is going to be hard to leave.
With just 50 models in production of the limited edition ORA Funky Cat, you’ll truly be one of kind.
Contact the GWM ORA South West team on info@gwm-ora-southwest.co.uk, or call 03330341658 to talk through your requirements and book your test drive of the ORA Funky Cat.
are various drive modes provided: obviously, to get anywhere near to the quoted efficiency stats, you’ll need to spend most of your time in the ‘Eco’ setting. On that subject, if you’d prefer to look at the EV version, you’ll find it powered by single front-mounted 201bhp motor. That’s energised by a 61.4kWh battery that when fully charged is claimed to be able to take the car up to 257 miles. Later, a 48kWh variant with a lesser 134bhp motor will also be offered.
Omoda is determined that fashionable design should be a major selling point of its models, which is why you’d be unlikely to mistake the Omoda 5 for anything else. Certainly not the two cars this 4-metre-long compact family crossover is primarily pitched against, the Nissan Qashqai (which is slightly longer) and the Hyundai Kona (which
is a little shorter). The main visual talking point is a huge grille which is almost completely flush with the front bumper. The rear gets a full-width light bar and if you opt for the plusher ‘Noble’ spec level, you get various red-coloured external trim elements. All models have a rakish profile with blanked-out C-pillar. And the EV version gets a bespoke front grille and modified side wings.
Inside, where everything is of surprisingly high quality for a mainstream brand, there’s a highmounted 10.25-inch infotainment screen. And a digital instrument cluster of the same size built into a single wide panel mounted on top of the dashboard. You’re going to need to like smudge-worthy gloss blacktrimmed panelling, but everything is decently screwed together and the things you interact with regularly
are soft to the touch. Plus there’s adjustable ambient lighting that varies itself with the selected drive mode.
Despite the gently sloping rear roofline, there’s plenty of headroom in the back, even with a sunroof fitted. And decent leg room for six-footers too. Out back, there’s a 378-litre boot, though that falls to just 292-litres in the EV version (basically superminisized). The trunk area lacks bag hooks but gets a low loading lip, so it’s easier to slide heavy items in.
There are two trim levels, the base ‘Comfort’ and plusher ‘Noble’.
As you’d hope, there’s lots of equipment included as standard. Like powerful LED headlights with T-shaped daytime running lights. And matrix taillights with 3D-effect illumination. Inside, the sporty front seats can be heated and ventilated and feature a variety of electrical
adjustments. As you’d want, there’s a full suite of intelligent ADAS systems for driver assistance. The portfolio includes adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane keeping and automatic low/high beam switching.
The Omoda brand is here for the long haul. This 5 model will shortly be joined by the Omoda 3 (Puma-sized) and the Omoda 7 (Sportage-sized), before the model line-up is completed by the Cayenne-sized Omoda 9. Chinese owners are often referred to as ‘Omoders’ and get access to a special ‘O-Club’, a social platform for ‘brand experiences’ that will be
replicated in Europe.
The kind of ‘brand experience’ you can expect from an Omoda 5 is likely to see you in possession of a car that compensates for largely unexciting engineering with rather striking looks. It’ll be fully equipped, well-warrantied, decently built and probably metronomically reliable. It’s also just a little bit different from the Qashqai or Kona-class compact family SUV you might just have been about to sign up for. Which makes this Chinese newcomer worth a look.
Motability Rates for Q4 2024: Omoda 5 Advance Payment from £1499.
RAC reviews: 3 hybrid cars to consider
Choosing a hybrid vehicle can mean smoother drives, greater fuel economy, and fewer trips to the pump. In this article, the RAC review three smart hybrids: the Renault Clio E-Tech, MG ZS Hybrid, and Kia Niro Hybrid.
Renault Clio E-Tech Hybrid
Category: Supermini
Advance Payment: From £0
Fuel type: Petrol-electric hybrid Seats: 5
Performance: 145hp, 9.3 seconds / Fuel economy: Up to 67.3mpg
If you’re looking for a cheap to run small hybrid car that isn’t SUV-shaped then your choices are limited. But the Renault Clio E-Tech Hybrid is well worth a look. It offers the smoothness and fuel economy of hybrid power in a compact and easy to drive package.
The Renault Clio has been the go-to supermini for those after a bit of style and French flair for decades. The latest model blends that sharp design with a posher interior than ever before, plenty of standard equipment, keen handling and good comfort levels.
Adding hybrid power only improves the package with the Clio E-Tech. Combining a 1.6-litre petrol engine with two electric motors for a healthy 145hp, the hybrid Clio has plenty of poke whether you’re nipping about town or getting up to speed on the motorway.
It’ll also cruise around in electric-only mode (up to 40mph) for a few miles at a time before the engine kicks in to charge up the battery. Renault reckons it can run with the engine off for around 80% of the time in
town driving. The result is impressively low fuel costs combined with the super smooth and quiet feel of an electric car around town.
Inside, the Clio is easy to operate thanks to plenty of physical controls, and still looks fresh despite this generation of Clio having been around since 2019. You get a portrait-angled touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, plus built-in sat-nav, although you miss out on the Google built-in technology found in Renault’s larger hybrid or electric models.
And while the Clio isn’t as roomy inside as a hybrid SUV, it’ll still seat four average-sided adults in relative comfort. However, the boot capacity is down slightly over the petrol model due to the hybrid system sitting under the boot.
MG ZS Hybrid
Category: Small SUV
Advance Payment: From £499
Fuel type: Petrol-electric hybrid
Seats: 5
Performance: 196hp, 8.7 seconds / Fuel economy: Up to 55.4mpg
Reborn brand MG has become hugely popular in the UK, offering capable yet great value-for-money cars. The
ZS small SUV is the biggest seller for the brand: over a million examples have found homes since it arrived in 2017.
This all-new MG ZS builds on that success. It’s bigger and more practical for starters, competing in size with cars like the Nissan Qashqai, with lots of cabin space whether you’re carrying large adults or children in car seats. A 443-litre boot will take a couple of pushchairs, too, with a height adjustable boot floor making loading items in and out easier.
The interior is also a much nicer place to sit than before. Cabin quality is much higher thanks to plenty of soft-touch trim, padded armrest and metallic trim elements, while the design is attractive and the high driving position gives you a great view out. Our only complaint is the lack of adjustment in the steering wheel, meaning the ZS might not be suitable for taller drivers.
Kia Niro Hybrid
Category: SUV
Advance Payment: From £1,999
Fuel type: Petrol-electric or petrol-electric plug-in hybrid
Seats: 5
Performance: 140hp, 11.3 seconds / Fuel economy: Up to 64.2mpg
Kia set a standard for many car brands to beat with the original Niro, one of the first cars to be offered as a hybrid, plug-in hybrid or fully electric car all in one range. This latest model continues that choice, but with a much sharper look, a more high-tech cabin and more passenger space.
As a result, the latest Kia Niro is an excellent all-round
Technology is easier to use than the old ZS, too, while standard kit includes sat-nav, a reversing camera, rear parking sensors and keyless entry. Top-spec Trophy brings niceties such as heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, an electrically adjustable driver’s seat and a handy 360-degree camera system to further aid parking.
MG’s new self-charging hybrid system is surprisingly powerful, with 196hp giving a 0-62mph time of just 8.7 seconds. The engine generates power for electric motors rather than driving the wheels directly, meaning you get instant acceleration and smooth low-speed running like an electric car. Despite that, the ZS Hybrid delivers great fuel economy of up to 55.4mpg.
All in all, the MG ZS Hybrid+ is a small SUV with big space, punchy performance and more luxury than your average affordable car.
family car. It’s affordable but feels well-made and comes with plenty of standard kit. Even entry-level 2 trim features adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera, keyless entry and a large touchscreen. While higher trims are loaded with features including a head-up display, electric boot lid, heated and ventilated front seats and even heated outer rear seats.
It’s practical, too. You’ll find even six-footers can get comfortable in the rear seats, while there’s loads of interior storage for odds and ends. The boot, too, is a good size at 451 litres, with an adjustable boot floor making loading easy.
The Niro’s biggest strength, though, is its smooth and easy driving experience. A higher seating position than a typical hatchback means it’s easy to get in and out, while visibility is excellent too. Light steering and simple controls make town driving a doddle, but the Niro is also comfortable at a cruise thanks to a smooth ride and low noise levels.
Granted, with a 0-62mph time of 11.3 seconds the Niro isn’t going to set pulses racing. But with electric power boosting it off the line it still feels perky. Key to the Niro’s appeal is low running costs, and it’s capable of excellent fuel economy both in and out of town without needing to be plugged in to charge like a plug-in hybrid (the battery charges up while coasting and braking). All in all, it’s a strong package.
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What makes a Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV) different?
If you’ve never travelled in a WAV, your first journey might feel quite different from a standard car trip.
That’s because WAVs are converted so a wheelchair user can stay in their wheelchair when travelling. And that changes a few things, for drivers and passengers.
What are the biggest changes you’ve seen in WAVs in recent years? How have they improved?
One of the biggest improvements in Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles (WAVs) has been how ramps work. In the past, ramps were heavy and tricky to lift. This could make things hard for anyone helping someone who uses a wheelchair. But things have changed.
Now, many WAV converters have added something called gas struts. These help take the weight of the ramp, so it feels lighter and easier
to move. You no longer have to lift the whole thing yourself. This makes getting in and out of the vehicle much easier.
Another great change is the inside of the vehicle. It’s now quieter and more comfortable for wheelchair users. Converters use plywood under the floor. This helps stop echoing, so it sounds nicer inside. The flooring and side panels are better too. They use materials like fibreglass and carpet that’s similar to what you’d find in a car boot.
All of this means WAVs now feel more welcoming. They’re better to travel in, and they look and feel more like a standard car. These changes show how converters are working hard to make things better for customers.
What’s the biggest difference
between driving a WAV and driving a car?
One of the biggest differences is ground clearance. Because a lot of WAVs have lowered floors you do not have the same ground clearance as a car, so if you travel over a speed bump a little too fast then the bottom of the WAV may hit the bump.
Also, WAVs tend to be bigger than cars, in height, length and width, so it’s important to remember that you might not fit into the same parking spaces and have restricted height access in some cases.
As the wheelchair user remains seated in their wheelchair, how does this compare to sitting in a standard car seat?
You do not necessarily have seats next to you, so it can feel a bit odd compared to sitting on a shared rear
seat in a standard car.
Your seated position could be towards the rear of the vehicle, so depending on the size of WAV this can make it harder to communicate with the driver or other passengers. This is a big change if you have been used to sitting side by side with the driver in a standard car, and can change the dynamic of how you travel and talk to each other.
That said, you will find that converters often offer a number of seating configurations for their vehicles. It’s really important to discuss this with them to find the one that’s best for you.
In a WAV, you’re seated in the wheelchair which, although safely restrained, is not fixed to the floor in the same way as a car seat so you may feel some additional movement. And as you’re generally sat higher than if you’re sitting in a car seat, your eyeline could be higher, which could give you a different view out of the windows.
In time, most people get used to these compromises, they’re just some things to be aware of before
deciding on a WAV. How important is it to test drive a WAV?
It’s the most important thing! Have as many test drives as you possibly can, customers normally lease their WAV for five years, so you need a good indication of what it’s like to live with it now and for the next few years.
Before the test drive, plan the route in advance and go on a journey that you’re used to, along with the places you may need to park. I recommend taking all the equipment you would normally need and drive on roads where there are speed bumps and pot holes, as well as on higher speed roads with smooth surfaces. This will give you a chance to think about comfort, road noise and how the vehicle rides.
Are there any other options aside from a WAV if you are a wheelchair user and struggling with a standard car?
If you’d prefer to stay in a standard car then the Motability Scheme offers a range of adaptations to help get in
and out of a car. A good option for wheelchair users are person hoists, these enable you to lift someone out of their wheelchair and guide them into the front passenger seat. While person hoists can be helpful, it’s important to note that the person operating the hoist should be fairly able-bodied and flexible. If you’re a full-time wheelchair user and you struggle to transfer yourself onto a car seat, with or without assistance, then a WAV is your best option. But the only way to know is to try one.
How do Nearly New WAVs differ to a new WAV?
Nearly New WAVs could be a more affordable way to lease a Motability Scheme WAV with a lower Advance Payment than a new WAV. Nearly New WAVs are on a three-year lease, as opposed to new WAVs which are a five-year lease. If a customer has a condition that frequently changes then the shorter lease may suit them better. Bear in mind that with Nearly New WAVs, you’re limited to what is available in the marketplace when you are ready to choose your vehicle.
How your Electric Vehicle could save you money and help the planet
You may already know that electric vehicles (EVs) are better for the environment and can be cheaper to run at home than petrol or diesel cars. But there’s even more to look forward to. Soon, your EV might also help lower your home energy bills. This is thanks to new technology called Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X), which includes:
- Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G): Sending energy from your car back to the national electricity grid
- Vehicle-to-Home (V2H): Powering your home using your car battery
- Vehicle-to-Load (V2L): Using your EV to power things like a kettle or camping gear
In this article, we’ll cover how V2G works, how you can access it, and how it can help.
How does V2G work?
Think of your EV as a giant battery on wheels. Most people charge their EVs at home, usually overnight when electricity is cheaper. With V2G, your car battery could send that stored energy back to the grid or help power your home.
This way, you avoid paying when electricity is more expensive, such as busy times when people get home from work and switch on the oven, TV, or kettle.
This means:
– You charge your EV when energy is cheap
– You use your EV power for your home or appliances and can sell it when prices are higher This will help you save money on
Did you know?
demand at peak times.
And if you have solar panels or a heat pump, they can work with your EV too, making your home even more energy efficient and giving you more energy bill savings.
What do I need for V2G?
V2G-capable vehicles and chargers are expected to be widely available soon, although rollout could be delayed due to regulations or technical
When you lease an EV on the Motability Scheme, you’ll get home chargepoint and standard installation or a subscription to the bp pulse network of public chargepoints included in your all-inclusive lease package.
electricity and charging and give you more control and flexibility over your energy use. You’ll also support a greener energy system by reducing
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barriers.
To make the most of V2G in the future, you’ll need:
– A compatible EV and charger that
can regularly be plugged in at home
– A smart meter
– Internet or Wi-Fi
– An energy tariff that supports V2G
– An app to set your charging preferences and schedule
You’ll just need to plug in at home and the smart tech will handle the rest. If you’re not sure you’ve got everything you need, your energy supplier or installer can help check if your EV, charger and tariff are V2Gready.
While full V2G is not widely available yet, customers can benefit from smart charging, which means you can charge when electricity is cheapest.
What’s coming next?
V2G technology is moving fast and we’re keeping a close watch to see how it could support our customers. In the future, it could be an easy way for you to save more, support a cleaner energy system, and get even more value from your EV.
How the new car market is changing in 2025
You may be aware that plenty is changing in the motor industry right now. Car firms are facing pressure from many different areas. This could impact the type of new cars you can choose on the Motability Scheme.
After years of disruption, new car supply has steadily been returning to normal. First it was the pandemic, then shortages of key components such as computer chips. This saw production at car factories fall. It led to longer waiting times for Motability Scheme customers. As these issues have been resolved, taking delivery of your next new car has become faster.
However, challenges remain in the motor industry. Legislation is demanding an ever-higher number of new electric cars must be sold. Developments in safety technology are helping make cars safer, but public awareness remains an obstacle. The type of new car people prefer is changing, while many new car brands are arriving.
To help you understand the challenges in the motor industry in 2025, here are some of the pressures car manufacturers face.
• Driving the switch to electric
• Disabled drivers and electric car charging
• New brands and changing preferences
• Assisted driving and accessibility
Driving the switch to electric 2025 is the second year of the government’s Zero Emissions Vehicle Mandate, or ZEV Mandate. Car makers are required to register an increasing number of electric vehicles, or EVs, each year. The proportion was 22% of all their UK sales in 2024. It increases to 28% in 2025. By 2030, 80% of all new cars sold must be fully electric.
There are some new flexibilities for the ZEV Mandate for 2025. The fines for car manufacturers who miss their EV sales targets have been reduced. They fall from £15,000 per car over target, to £12,000. There are also more
flexibilities in the calculations car firms make to work out their ZEV Mandate targets.
While the phase-out of regular petrol and diesel cars from 2030 has not changed, hybrids will now be allowed from 2030-2035. This includes regular hybrids (known as HEVs) as well as longer-range plug-in hybrids (PHEVs). However, from 2035 the target is that only fully-electric new cars will be sold in Britain. new cars will be sold in Britain.
What this means for Motability Scheme customers is a shift in the type of new cars available. You may already have seen there are fewer diesel cars. This is a shift that’s been underway for several years. There will gradually be fewer petrol cars available too, with hybrids taking over. Fully electric cars will significantly grow in number.
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A graphic showing new car registrations in May 2025 by fuel type, year-on-year percentage changes, and market shares. Source: SMMT.
Disabled drivers and electric car charging
There is growing awareness that some disabled drivers can struggle to use public electric car chargers. Challenges include the weight of charging cables and the force required to attach the connector. A lack of dropped kerbs around chargepoints and unsuitable parking arrangements are also problematic.
The Motability Foundation, which oversees the Motability Scheme, believes that all public EV chargepoints should be accessible. Working with the government, the Motability Foundation commissioned the British Standards Institute (BSI) to develop a national accessible charging standard for EV chargepoints.
The standard has now been published. It is called ‘PAS 1899’. The Motability Foundation will support its uptake and ensure it is used as widely as possible to make public EV charging accessible to all.
New brands and changing preferences
The arrival of new brands in the UK is gathering pace in 2025. In recent months, Chinese electric car brands Xpeng and Leapmotor have arrived in the UK, along with hybrid car brand Haval. They join the fast-growing model ranges of BYD, Omoda and Jaecoo. All three are already outselling several familiar and well-established brands.
In the future, many of these new car brands could be sold at a familiar
dealer local to you. They might sit alongside established brands, or replace a familiar carmaker entirely. It means that you’ll still be able to visit the Motability Scheme experts you know, just with a different brand to the one you may have leased previously.
There are changes in the type of new cars now popular in the UK as well. 2024 saw the departure of the famous Ford Fiesta small car. Reflecting the preferences of today’s drivers, the Ford Puma small SUV effectively takes its place in the range. It offers easier access, a higher seating position and a large boot. All are important attributes for Motability Scheme customers.
There is also an electric Ford Puma Gen-E. This looks almost
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identical to the hybrid petrol Puma models, but has battery electric power and a range of up to 233 miles. It follows the trend of car firms launching electric alternatives to their popular petrol models. This trend towards more SUVs and more electric cars will continue in the future. It’s worth bearing this in mind as you use the ‘Find a vehicle’ tool on the Motability Scheme website.
Assisted driving and accessibility
New technology is helping make driving safer and easier. All new cars must be fitted with a number of additional safety features as standard. This is part of the Europewide General Safety Regulation, or GSR2. Features include driver drowsiness and attention warning. They also include automatic emergency braking, sometimes known as AEB. I’ve driven hundreds of new cars fitted with AEB as standard and can vouch for how effective it is in avoiding collisions.
Some new cars are also available with additional ‘assisted driving’ systems. These offer what’s called ‘partially automated’ driving on long journeys. Drivers must still keep their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road, but the car will partly ‘drive itself’ in safety. Expect awareness of such assisted driving technology to grow as more manufacturers offer it on new cars.
For disabled drivers, assisted driving systems could help make motoring easier and safer, particularly on long motorway journeys. “Technology fitted to today’s vehicles can work as eyes and ears to help keep road users safe, using sensors and cameras to detect potential hazards, warn drivers, and take corrective action automatically,” explains Euro NCAP, the European safety testing organisation.
Motability Scheme all-inclusive package
Whatever happens in the new
car market, the support you receive from the Motability Scheme remains the same. The all-inclusive package includes insurance cover, servicing and MOT, breakdown cover and support with your electric car.
As the motor industry shifts to electric cars, the Motability Scheme will help with a home chargepoint and standard installation as part of your lease. If you don’t have a driveway, you will be given access to the bp pulse network of over 9,000 public chargepoints. This helps make leasing an electric car on the Motability Scheme as easy as possible.
I think there has rarely been a more exciting time to be in the market for a new car. The choice is broader than ever, and some of the latest new models are high-tech marvels that are great fun to drive. With the right help from the Motability Scheme, and your local dealer, I’m sure you’ll find the best new car for you. Happy motoring!
Everything you need to know about your drivers on the Motability Scheme
Your Motability Scheme lease includes insurance for up to three drivers through Direct Line Motability (DLM).
This means if you are not able to drive or do not want to drive yourself, your car can be driven by a family member, friend, or carer. We’ve put together some common questions about adding or removing your drivers during your lease.
You can have up to three drivers on your vehicle and can change these at any time.
Only drivers approved by DLM’s criteria and named as ‘permitted drivers’ on your Certificate of Motor Insurance are covered to drive your car.
Drivers who have their own fully comprehensive insurance cover on another car cannot drive your vehicle unless you’ve added them as driver.
There are a few other rules around who can drive your vehicle:
Drivers under 25 years old can only get a petrol, diesel or hybrid car with an ABI insurance group of 16 or lower and a power output of 120 brake horsepower (BHP) or less. For electric cars, drivers under 25 can drive vehicles with 140 BHP or less, or an ABI insurance group of 21 or lower. If you think you’ll need a driver under 25, use the filter on our Car Search to see what’s available.
You can only have one driver under 21. This could be the disabled person or another driver living at the same address. As long as they meet a few conditions, provisional licence holders can also learn to drive in Scheme vehicles.
Drivers must have a legally valid
driving licence. If they have a non-UK licence, we’ll do some extra checks.
Drivers with certain convictions, disqualifications or endorsements in the last five years cannot drive your Scheme vehicle.
It’s important to remember that the car has been leased the benefit of the disabled person, so it should only be used for that purpose.
If none of the drivers live at the disabled person’s address, or the disabled person lives in a care home where several drivers have access to the vehicle, we might fit a location tracker to make sure the disabled person is benefitting. We will be in touch about this first.
If you’re someone who relies on multiple caregivers, having an open insurance policy can really help. It means different caregivers can use the same vehicle to assist you. If you live in a care home, nursing home, or school, or you need 24-hour care, you can get this kind of insurance.
If you have a Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV) and need more than one person to drive for your care, you can also look to get an open insurance policy.
The easiest way to add or change a driver during your lease, is in your Motability Scheme online account. You’ll be able to make these changes under the ‘Insurance’ section in your account, which will take you to the Direct Line Motability (DLM) insurance portal.
We’ve put together some short video tutorials to help you manage your drivers online.
If you cannot do this online, you can
also call DLM on 0300 037 3737.
If one of your current drivers is no longer able to drive, check if there is anyone else that can replace them.
If one of your drivers is convicted of a motoring offence during the agreement, you must tell DLM immediately to make sure they’re still covered.
You should also let the DVLA know about any change in your or your drivers’ mobility or health which might make driving unsafe. If your GP has cleared you to drive and the DVLA are aware of these changes, you do not need to contact us.
If you cannot find someone else to drive your car, we have additional guidance available.
If someone needs to drive your car unexpectedly, you can add an emergency driver for up to five days. This is only for exceptional circumstances.
You can use this option up to four times across 12 months. So, a year after you make an emergency driver change, it will no longer be counted.
They always need to stick to the Scheme rules and use the vehicle for your benefit.
You cannot use emergency drivers as a substitute for a permanent driver. If you rely on this driver throughout the year, you’ll need to include them on your Certificate of Motor Insurance as a permanent driver.
You can easily see, add or change your drivers, including emergency drivers, in the ‘Insurance cover’ section of your Motability Scheme online account. Or you can call Direct Line Motability on 0300 037 3737.
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Disability aids recommended by disabled people
The right aids can be an important part of living independently and can make life easier. Blogger Chloe Tear asked for recommendations from the disabled community. Read about her top mobility aids, bathroom equipment and kitchen gadgets here.
I’ve been using disability aids for most of my life. I have mild cerebral palsy, and I became visually impaired at the age of 18. When thinking about the aids that have helped me the most, one thing became clear: the disabled community have the best answers.
We’re constantly learning from each other to make day-to-day life that bit easier. I took to X and asked my followers what disability aids have helped them. Here are some of their suggestions.
• Recommended mobility aids
• Bathroom aids
• Kitchen gadgets
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Recommended mobility aids
When it comes to buying a mobility aid, it can be a minefield. Ibrahim Omotosho says that mobility aids “make moving from one point to the other seamless. That’s what I call empowerment.”
While it will depend on your own needs, there are some tips and tricks.
Rollator
You could benefit from a rollator, which can give you something to lean on and sit down. Not only are these good to use outside, but they can also be helpful indoors when carrying things from room to room.
Walking stick seats
If you can walk but often need to sit down, going out for longer periods of time can be a challenge. Laura Cook recommends getting a walking stick with a stool attachment. She said: “it has been a game changer for me in getting me out and walking more. I carry my stickstool everywhere so I can sit whenever I need to.”
Guide dogs
A guide dog may not be right for everyone, but Guide Dogs assess each person and look at what mobility aid works best. Guide Dogs also have a range of services. This includes long cane training, so you can be more confident navigating your surroundings.
If a guide dog is not right for you, why not try out a therapy dog? Spending time with therapy dogs can boost your wellbeing without needing to look after one yourself.
Canes
If you have reduced vision, a long white cane could help more than you might think. I’ve used one and benefited greatly. I wrongly assumed this mobility aid was reserved for someone who had no remaining vision. Yet my reliance on a long cane has been a blessing in disguise.
Our powered wheelchairs can be a helpful option if walking or moving around is difficult. We’ll work with you to find one that’s comfortable and right for you.
They can be super helpful for exploring the outdoors, as Alison explains: “I need a wheelchair, but my freewheel attachment is the very best. It allows me so much freedom outside on all kinds of terrain. I don’t get stuck, I’m more stable and it’s so freeing!”
Not sure which wheelchair is best for you? Check out our guide. Some people decide to move from a manual wheelchair to a powered one to maximise safety and independence. Learn how Pippa Stacey made the switch and the benefits she saw as a result.
Bathroom aids
One of the first aids I started to use was a bath board. This allowed me to sit down so I could climb over the edge of the bath or even use it as a bench to sit on if I wanted a shower. This small modification can make a bigger difference than you’d think. Now that I have my own house, a shower chair has been really helpful. Prices for bath boards start from around £7.
Jenny says, “my shower stool has been a game changer for me. This means I can wash a bit more regularly with peace of mind regarding my safety. Showering is no longer a scary experience.”
If you don’t have a shower, Alannah-Jayne recommends handles around the bath. She says, “without them, I wouldn’t be able to get in and out without pain or getting stuck. I recommend getting them as you can hold on to slowly sit up, which is less painful than straining.” This is something your local council may be able to provide. You can use the government website to apply for equipment at your home if you’re disabled.
You can also get sponges on a long handle which can help if you have reduced mobility. These aids can make things easier and help you to wash your whole body. I also find it easier to use products that have a pump lid. You don’t have to worry about opening bottles or squeezing them.
If you struggle to get on and off the toilet, grab rails help. I have had these put into my bathroom. I might not need to use them every day, but they can aid my independence if I’m in a lot of pain.
Kitchen Gadgets
We’re guaranteed to spend a lot of time in the kitchen, whether that’s making a drink or cooking a meal. I’ve loved learning new recipes over the last few years and certainly get a lot of use out of my slow cooker. I use frozen pre-chopped fruit and vegetables, making it even easier to throw everything in.
There are loads of aids which can make things a little easier. Here are a few that have been recommended:
- A regular go-to would be a perching stool. These are great when standing in the kitchen and can offer support around the house. The slightly slanted angle makes it perfect for taking the weight off your feet. If you’d struggle to do this, why not sit down when preparing a meal to save energy?
- A tipping kettle or hot water dispenser can be “quicker and safer than pouring a boiled kettle” says Winnie Wilkins. It can be great if your hands are weaker or shaky. I also use a coffee machine which eliminates the need to lift a kettle.
- No kitchen would be complete without a set of scales and as someone with a visual impairment, talking scales just make sense. They allow me to weigh food and liquid, giving me independence when cooking.
In conclusion, if you’re new to using disability aids, it can feel like you’re giving up. I’ll let you in on a secret, it’s the complete opposite. By using aids, we can conserve energy, gain more independence and live life to the full.
