Accessible Vehicles and Equipment Scheme evaluation - devolved disability benefits: research

Appendix 1: AVE Scheme logic model

This Appendix contains the logic model for the AVE Scheme developed with the RAG. This sets out the resources and inputs required to deliver the Scheme as well as the outcomes that the Scottish Government intends the Scheme to achieve or contribute to.

Aim

The AVE Scheme aims to support disabled people to become more independent and improve their quality of life. The Scheme will achieve this by providing disabled people with the choice of a range of affordable accessible vehicles and equipment.

Inputs

• Scottish Government funding and facilitation
• Scottish Government accreditation scheme
• Providers’ finances (e.g. reimbursing SSS admin costs)
• Systems for approval at dealerships
• Scottish Government and Social Security Scotland staff time
• Communications and accreditations with providers
• Communications with individuals and stakeholders
• Providers’ and dealers’ staff time
• Providers’ and dealers’ IT systems to interface with SG
• Accessible vehicles and equipment.

Policy commitments

• Individuals have a choice about what provider they choose to go with under the AVE Scheme
• Individuals can choose an accredited provider who meets their mobility needs
• Additional providers will have the opportunity to join the Scheme at regular intervals
• Individuals who currently have a lease with Motability will not lose their vehicle and will continue to enjoy the same standards of service
• No individual will be subject to a credit check to access a vehicle or equipment
• Individuals will pay no more than their weekly mobility component to lease a vehicle
• Individuals can choose to pay an advance payment to lease specific vehicles or equipment that meet their needs, or choose from a range of vehicles or equipment with no advance payment
• All providers will be required to offer the same high standards of service
• We will make communications about the AVE Scheme as simple and as clear as possible, and tell clients about how to access the AVE Scheme.

Short-term Outcomes (direct impacts of the Scheme)

• Individuals are aware of the AVE Scheme
• Individuals understand how to access the AVE Scheme
• Individuals feel they have adequate choice through the AVE Scheme
• Barriers that prevent individuals taking up the AVE Scheme are addressed and reduced
• Providers are able to access an efficient application process at regular intervals
• All providers offer the same high level of service
• Experience of the AVE Scheme is in line with values of dignity, fairness, and respect
• Individuals’ mobility needs are met through the AVE Scheme
• Individuals feel the AVE Scheme offers value for money
• Individuals have a positive view of the AVE Scheme
• Individuals experience a smooth transition from the previous pre-AVE Motability Scheme to the AVE Scheme.

Medium-term Outcomes (Changes that occur partly because of the Scheme, but there are also some other contributory and causal factors)

• Disabled people who access the AVE Scheme have improved independence and quality of life
• Individuals trust in the AVE Scheme
• Values of dignity, fairness and respect are embedded
• Anyone involved in the delivery of the Scheme offers individuals a positive experience (including dealers, providers and others in the supply chain, e.g. breakdown cover providers, mechanics, tyre/windscreen replacement technicians)
• Providers deliver effective support in the case of accidents or breakdowns
• Providers respond to members’ changing needs/circumstances over time, including any deteriorations or improvements in health or disabilities, and any changes in eligibility
• The AVE Scheme supports people to access and sustain employment, education and training opportunities
• The AVE Scheme supports members’ wellbeing through improved or sustained access to health and other public services, and to social, cultural and leisure activities.

Long-term Outcomes (Wider outcomes that AVE contributes to but with many different contributory and causal factors)

• Reduced poverty in Scotland
• Reduced inequalities and discrimination
• Individuals trust in Social Security Scotland
• The Scottish social security system is efficient and delivers value for money
• Scottish Government de-carbonisation objectives are met through provision of accessible, environmentally friendly and sustainable modes of transport for disabled people
• Bridging the mobility gap
• Public services treat people with dignity and respect.

Risk factors/external factors

Policy changes are not implemented as intended; Other parts of the Social Security Scotland application and/or decision-making process negatively impact on experience of AVE; Unclear communications, errors in communications; Errors or poor service standards among providers; Providers fail to meet their contractual responsibilities; Vehicle/equipment availability/rising cost; AVE intended outcomes and aspirations are not achievable due to factors beyond SG/SSS control; Providers’ business models; SG has limited control over individuals’ experience of discrimination; SG has limited control over the cost of living.