Are you a war pensioner in the UK facing mobility challenges due to injuries sustained during your service? If so, you may be eligible for the War Pension Mobility Supplement, an allowance designed to provide financial assistance to veterans who require extra support to maintain their independence and mobility.
Let’s dive into the War Pensions Mobility Supplement, a key benefit designed to boost independence and support for our vets in their everyday lives. Join us as we explore the steps to accessing this vital support for war pensioners in the UK.
What Is War Pensioners Mobility Supplement?
The War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement (WPMS) is a financial benefit offered by Veterans UK to those participating in the War Pensions Scheme. The main purpose of WPMS is to support ex-military personnel in the UK who face mobility issues as a result of their service.
This scheme provides fixed weekly payments, also known as mobility allowance, to assist with extra mobility costs. It also grants access to other benefits like exemption from road tax, a blue badge for parking, and the possibility to get a Disabled Persons Railcard.
WPMS also allows recipients to participate in the Motability Scheme to enhance their independence and quality of life.
What Is the Motability Scheme?
The Motability Scheme is a program designed to enable disabled individuals to lease a new car, scooter, or powered wheelchair using their government-funded Mobility Allowance. Managed by Motability Operations Ltd and overseen by the charity Motability, the scheme offers a typical lease term of three years which includes an all-inclusive package. It usually covers running costs such as insurance and breakdown cover, facilitating greater freedom and independence for those who are part of it.
Individuals receiving other benefits such as Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP), Personal Independence Payment (PIP) with a higher rate mobility section, or Disability Living Allowance with a higher rate mobility section, can also access the Motability Scheme.
If you choose to participate in this scheme, the mobility allowance is paid directly from the allowance provider into the mobility scheme. However, depending on the chosen vehicle, an additional payment also known as an advanced payment may be required. This is a non-refundable amount you must pay upfront for some vehicles in addition to your weekly mobility allowance.
What Qualifies You for Mobility Allowance?
To start receiving wpms, the war pension mobility supplement criteria must be met. This means that you need to fall into one of these categories:
- You have suffered the amputation of one or two legs (at the ankle level or higher).
- You receive a war pension payment of above 40% and:
- You are unable to walk or find walking difficult as a result of the injury sustained on duty or
- You have suffered a vision loss of at least 90% and a hearing loss of 80% or more, which means you cannot walk outside without assistance.
Please note that war pensioners mobility supplement and pip are not compatible. If you already receiving Disability Living Allowance (DLA) or Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP), you won’t qualify for WPMS either.
How Much Is War Pensioners Mobility Supplement?
Unlike other benefits, war pension mobility supplement rates are fixed. This means that you will receive the same amount as other wpms holders, regardless of your condition or the extent to which you are impaired due to your health issue. In 2024, WPMS has a fixed weekly payment rate of £79.25.
If you are asking yourself, “How do I apply for a War Pension?” you have come to the right place. Follow the link and read our comprehensive guide to learn what you need to do to start receiving it.
How Long Can I Receive WPMS for?
If you’re awarded WPMS, it can continue for as long as you meet the eligibility criteria, which typically relates to the extent of your mobility impairment and the ongoing impact of your service-related injuries or conditions. Veterans UK may periodically review your circumstances to ensure that you still meet the eligibility criteria.
How Can I Get a Mobility Allowance?
To apply for the War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement (WPMS), you must complete this claim form available through the Veterans UK website. This form includes questions regarding personal details, doctor’s information, hospital visits, and the mobility issues faced, among others.
Do you need help with the wpms application process? If you’re unable to download or print the form, you can request a copy by contacting the Veterans UK Helpline directly by calling 0808 1914218 or writing an email to veterans-uk@mod.gov.uk. If you prefer to send a letter, their contact details are as follows:
Veterans UK
Norcross,
Thornton-Cleveleys,
FY5 3WP,
United Kingdom
How Can I Appeal against an Unfavourable Decision?
After receiving the application, Veterans UK will inform the applicant of the outcome. If a successful decision is not received, it can be appealed. To learn more details on the appeal process for war pensions mobility supplement unfavourable decisions, we suggest you read this article on the UK government website.
Improving Mobility for Our War Heroes
The War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement (WPMS) offers vital support to veterans who face mobility challenges due to injuries sustained during service. WPMS consists of a fixed weekly payment of £79.25 designed to cover the extra costs associated with these challenges to enable veterans to achieve greater independence.
To receive the war pensioners mobility supplement rate, you need to make sure you comply with the requirements. Once you do, you must complete the claim form available through the Veterans UK website and send it either online or by post to the address indicated above.
