Deadline: 15-Dec-2025

The Motability Foundation is offering grants of £50,000 to £249,999 to improve access to high-quality wheelchairs and mobility equipment for disabled people across the UK. The funding supports equipment provision, assessments, maintenance, advice services, and innovative projects that enhance independent mobility and inclusion.

Motability Foundation Wheelchair & Mobility Equipment Grant

Overview

The Motability Foundation has launched a funding round to enhance access to affordable, high-quality wheelchairs and mobility equipment. The programme targets organisations working at local or regional levels or supporting smaller groups of disabled people who face barriers in accessing the right equipment.

Objectives:

• Increase access to suitable mobility solutions

• Reduce barriers to independence for disabled people

• Support innovation and long-term sustainability in equipment provision

Funding Details

• Grant Amount: £50,000 – £249,999 per project

• Project Duration: Up to 3 years (flexible; one, two, or three years)

• Eligible Costs:

  • Manual and powered wheelchairs, power packs, walking aids

  • Equipment assessments and maintenance services

  • Advice, information, and navigation support for equipment provision

  • Research, feasibility studies, and innovation initiatives

Supported Activities

• Equipment Access Schemes: Grants or loans to provide mobility equipment to individuals

• Assessment & Maintenance Services: Ensuring proper fitting, upkeep, and ongoing support

• Information & Advice Projects: Helping disabled people navigate mobility equipment options

• Innovation & Pilot Projects: Testing new service models, digital tools, or accessibility solutions

• Research: Feasibility studies or investigations to improve provision, access, and quality

Who is Eligible?

Eligible applicants must:

• Be active for at least three years

• Be legally constituted as:

  • Incorporated Charity

  • Company Limited by Guarantee

  • Community Interest Company (CIC)

  • Community Benefit Society

  • Exempt Charity

• Operate in the UK

• Provide services without exclusion based on political or religious beliefs

Strongly Encouraged: Deaf and Disabled People’s Organisations (DDPOs) due to their lived experience and sector expertise.

Not Eligible:

• Unincorporated associations

• Statutory bodies or companies limited by shares

• Individuals, sole traders, or organisations that exclude participants based on political/religious criteria

How to Apply / What to Do

1. Assess Eligibility: Confirm legal status, operational history, and adherence to criteria.

2. Develop a Project Plan: Outline objectives, target beneficiaries, activities, expected outcomes, and impact on mobility access.

3. Budget Clearly: Include costs for equipment, assessments, maintenance, advice, and innovation activities.

4. Submit Application: Follow the Motability Foundation’s official submission guidelines and deadlines.

5. Evaluation: Applications are reviewed for relevance, innovation, sustainability, and potential impact on disabled people’s independence.

Best Practices / Tips

• Highlight how your project improves independent mobility for disabled people

• Demonstrate sustainability and potential for long-term impact beyond the grant period

• Include innovative approaches or pilot models to strengthen provision

• Ensure inclusive practices and equitable access for all eligible participants

• Provide a clear budget breakdown linked to project objectives

FAQ

1. Who can apply?
UK-based charities, CICs, community benefit societies, or companies limited by guarantee operating for at least three years.

2. What is the funding range?
£50,000 – £249,999 per project.

3. What is the project duration?
Up to 3 years; funding can be requested for 1, 2, or 3 years depending on the project plan.

4. What types of projects are supported?
Equipment provision (manual/powered wheelchairs, walking aids), assessment/maintenance services, advice/information support, research, and innovative pilot programmes.

5. Are Deaf and Disabled People’s Organisations prioritised?
Yes, DDPOs are strongly encouraged due to their direct experience and expertise in disability services.

6. Can the grant cover research and innovation projects?
Yes, projects that explore new solutions, improve service quality, or enhance accessibility are eligible.

7. Who benefits from this funding?
Disabled people across the UK, particularly those who face barriers to accessing mobility equipment and support.

Conclusion

The Motability Foundation Wheelchair & Mobility Equipment Grant offers organisations the opportunity to enhance access, independence, and quality of life for disabled people. By funding practical support, advice, and innovative approaches, the programme strengthens long-term mobility systems and empowers individuals to move confidently and independently across the UK.

For more information, visit Motability Foundation.