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Everybody needs a break every now and again. While some people see annual holidays as a luxury, there is good argument for them being a necessity. Enjoying downtime with family and friends can be beneficial for wellbeing, helping to reduce stress, strengthen personal relationships and improve your mood. Here, we discuss how to make the most of the Motability disability scheme by taking your car for a well-deserved getaway.
Over 40% of the UK population do not take a holiday. This figure includes families on low income, single-parent families and those who have a disabled member within the family who feel travel is restrictive and intimidating. While there is no denying travelling with a disability presents unique challenges, being in control of the experience can make a big difference. That is where your Motability car comes into play.
Around 650,000 people participate in the Motability scheme in the UK, with a wide variety of factors determining eligibility. If you're a Motability driver, the sense of freedom a car provides can make a real difference to the way you holiday. It could be the independence that a wheelchair-accessible vehicle provides. Or it could be the peace of mind provided by travelling at your own pace in your own safe space, without the pressure of meeting flight or train times. In some cases, having a car that empowers these feelings could be the deciding factor on whether you go on holiday at all.
Before getting down to the nitty gritty of holiday planning, it can be helpful to think about your personal boundaries. How do you feel about visiting another country? Are you at ease with the idea of long-haul travel? If you find that going abroad is too far out of your comfort zone, you might be better starting with a short break in the UK. Do not feel like you have to go too big too soon. You could start with somewhere not too far away from home before you book that once-in-a-lifetime trip to Europe.
Thinking about how you will reach your holiday destination is important. If you are making the journey by public transport, you may wish to consider informing the transport company of any special requirements you have. That way, staff are prepared for your arrival and can offer any assistance you need. However, if you, your family or your carer are driving to your destination in a Motability vehicle, this should minimise stress and be a real weight off your shoulders during the journey.
When it comes to planning the finer details of your holiday, it can be helpful to make a list of things you have at home that could help when you go away. You could talk to an organisation that understands your specific condition or join a relevant Facebook group or internet forum. Ask fellow members for their holiday recommendations. To caveat this, remember, everyone’s idea of ‘accessible’ is different. Only you will truly know what you need.
A simple, self-catering trip is often the perfect holiday for people with particular needs. On some accommodation websites such as Airbnb, you can search for accessibility criteria such as step-free access, a roll-in shower or simply a well-lit path to the entrance. Always speak directly to the property owner or management with any queries you have. Wherever you decide to stay, make sure you get what you are paying for. If the facilities at your hotel are not sufficient, tell the management. There are 13.9 million disabled people in the UK alone, and all deserve an amazing holiday experience.
Find out more about our Motability scheme. If you have further questions or would like to speak with an award winning Specialist about your options in person, use our TrustFord Dealership finder to find your nearest Dealership and receive free advice from our trained Motability experts.