A lifeline scheme giving disabled people access to vehicles will continue under a shake up of benefits in Scotland.
Scotland’s Social Security Secretary and local MSP Shirley-Anne Somerville announced the accreditation of the Motability charity during a visit to Dunfermline on Wednesday.
Under the Motability scheme, disabled people can use their allowance to lease cars, wheelchair friendly vehicles, scooters and powered wheelchairs to help them with their daily lives.
Ms Somerville made the announcement at Macklin Motors in Halbeath Road, which is helping to provide the scheme.
She said: “Access to an appropriate vehicle that can be adapted to meet the needs of disabled people provides a vital lifeline and freedom to get around that might not be possible otherwise.
“We want to make sure those who need that support have access to a competitive range of affordable vehicles that meet their needs and a package that keeps them on the road without problem.
“The Motability Scheme is a charity that has already been providing a high level of service in Scotland for 43 years. It has been accredited for Scotland’s new social security system after an open and fair competitive tendering process.
“Disabled adults and children already using the scheme and those that will benefit in the future can be confident that level of service will continue.”
Alastair Aitken, who is a Motability specialist at Macklin Motors, received a certificate of commendation from Ms Somerville for his contribution to the scheme.
Mr Aitken said: “I like being a Motability specialist because you interact more with the customers on the Motability side. You’re giving them not just a car, but giving them the freedom that me and you take for granted every day.”
Under the Scotland Act 2016, the Scottish Government has new powers relating to social security, including responsibility over certain benefits.
The government is introducing Disability Child Benefit this summer and Disability Assistance for Working Age People early next year. Both benefits have a mobility element which can be used for Motability.
Kenneth Harper, 64, of Rosyth, said the scheme helped give him independence and without it he would not be able to pursue his fly fishing hobby.
“I go fly fishing three days a week and thanks to Motability it enables me to get outdoors,” he said.
“It’s fantastic.”
Barry Le Grys, chief executive of Motability, said: “We are pleased to be continuing to offer these services to our many Scottish customers.”
