Nick Clegg presents Motability car to Dogs for the Disabled Client

Nick Clegg said, “Motability plays a vital role in helping disabled people in the UK maintain their independence.I am proud to be associated with the Scheme and to have the opportunity to present Beryl with her new car.”

Peter Gorbing, Chief Executive of Dogs for the Disabled who attended the presentation commented, "Being able to have your independence is one of the most important aspects of daily living and is certainly the cornerstone of the assistance dog movement. Having the opportunity to be mobile goes hand in hand with this concept."

Beryl, has multiple sclerosis, a disorder of the nervous system, which has crept on over the last 15 years, gradually affecting her mobility.Beryl now uses a powered wheelchair most of the time and has an assistance dog, Euro, to help her with many day-to-day tasks at home and when she’s out.

Motability is now entering its fourth decade of assisting disabled people with their mobility needs through its car and wheelchair schemes.It is a partnership between the charitable sector, the Government, leading banks and the motor and insurance industries.

This is Beryl’s fourth car through the Scheme and it has been specially adapted with a steering wheel ball to make steering easier and hand controls to simplify operating the accelerator, brakes and indicators.The car is also installed with a wheelchair hoist, enabling Beryl to stow her powered wheelchair without difficulty.The rear seating has been adjusted as well to make room for Euro, her Golden Retriever, to travel safely in the car.

Originally from Chester, Beryl graduated from Sheffield University with a degree in psychology and has stayed in the area ever since.She worked for the NHS at both regional and national level, until retiring for health reasons.

“I still keep my connection with the NHS, working as a volunteer on several committees,” explained Beryl.“Having a Motability car means that I can visit my friends for lunch, play bridge, go to the theatre or to a live music concert and take part in the occasional fundraising event - last year I even did an abseil!

I also like to keep in touch with my three grownup children and their partners.My eldest daughter has just made me a grandma for the first time and I’ll get a lot of pleasure from popping round in my car to see my little granddaughter.

Gerry Acher CBE LVO, Vice-Chairman of Motability, added:“For a disabled person a car is often their lifeline, providing freedom to come and go as they please, getting to work, to the shops, visiting friends and family - everyday things that many of us take for granted.We are delighted that Nick Clegg will be able to join us to present Beryl with her car and to celebrate the success of the Scheme.”