This has been going on since the very beginning of the system!! cars have been used as mini cabs, used by self employed relatives and friends and used socially. You do not need a driving license to qualify for a car. Therefore a relative/friend can drive you about on the comprehensive insurance as a named driver. Changing the named driver can be done with a phone call!!
So a family member/friend of a severely disabled person can repay them the benefit and gain the car, fully serviced, comprehensively insured,road taxed, with RAC Recovery status, window replacement and a full set of tyres for a three year period. Some higher range cars require a one off payment.
I have difficulties walking and travelling on public transport and am registered as disabled. I have had a Ford Focus 1800, a VW Polo and two other limited edition Ford's via the scheme. I am, currently, car less awaiting a decision on whether the new MG6 will be included in the scheme. This scheme allows me to get out the house and gives some degree of independence by not having to rely on others to go and pick up prescriptions and stuff. On the odd occasions that I can afford enough petrol I can take a trip out in the Scottish country side. I have a nominated driver but I keep the car at my address. I have seen and heard about many fiddles as noted above. Every system can be fiddled, let's face it. However by main gripe is that alcoholics and junkies may also qualify for a car which to my mind is very dangerous indeed. The cars may then be driven by them or associates while they are under the influence or to transport drugs. A cop who checks out a disability car, on the move, is less likely to stop and search it unless he/she recognises the driver.
A great scheme ruined by a minority of abusers should not mean the end of it.
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