Motability is a UK charity founded in 1977 by Lord Sterling of Plaistow and Lord Goodman, established to help disabled people access affordable, reliable transport. The Motability Scheme, operated by Motability Operations Ltd, enables eligible disabled people to exchange their qualifying mobility benefit for a lease on a new car, wheelchair-accessible vehicle, powered wheelchair or mobility scooter, with insurance, breakdown cover and vehicle excise duty included in the package.The scheme is one of the largest of its kind in the world, having provided over 5.5 million vehicles, scooters and powered wheelchairs since 1978. As of recent figures, approximately 815,000 people participate in the scheme, accounting for around one in five new cars purchased in the UK. Eligibility requires receipt of the Higher Rate Mobility Component of Disability Living Allowance or the Enhanced Rate of Personal Independence Payment, typically with at least 12 months remaining on the award.Customers receive a new vehicle every three years through a network of over 5,000 UK dealerships. All surpluses generated by Motability Operations are reinvested in the business or donated to the Motability Foundation charity, which provides grants and support to help disabled people with their mobility needs beyond the core scheme.