Region

United Kingdom

Solution

AppyParking+ Mobile App

Accessibility is at the heart of everything we do at Motability Operations, and the AppyParking+ app aligns perfectly with that goal. Hearing from customers who say they now feel more prepared and less stressed when parking is incredibly rewarding.

We’re proud to be part of a AppyWay's project that’s truly improving the parking experience for so many people.

Jonathan Jenkins, Head of Innovation at Motability Operations

Overview

Background

 

Motability Operations is  the organisation that runs the Motability Scheme, where disabled people can choose to lease an affordable and accessible vehicle. Founded in 1978, Motability Operations, is the largest vehicle leasing company in the UK and it plays an essential role in connecting its 800,000 disabled customers to work, healthcare, education, and independence.  

With a complete leasing package that covers insurance, servicing, and maintenance, Motability Operations enables customers to get mobile.

To further support their customers, particularly those who are Blue Badge holders who may struggle with finding parking, Motability Operations partnered with AppyWay to launch a pilot project. The AppyParking+ app offers information on parking spaces and restrictions, tailored to Blue Badge holders’ needs. 

Motability Scheme customer charging an EV, source: Motability Operations

Challenges

 

Blue Badge holders often struggle to find convenient and accessible parking spaces. This challenge can lead to increased travel time, missed appointments, and parking fines due to unclear restrictions. Planning their journey is often impossible due to no detailed knowledge of available Blue Badge parking spots, and the parking price. 

 

Solution

 

To address these issues, Motability Operations partnered with AppyWay to provide their customers with access to the AppyParking+ app. The app offers detailed information on available parking spaces and restrictions, tailored specifically for Blue Badge holders.

The main aim of the collaboration was to assess whether the app could truly enhance the daily parking experience for users and whether it would be widely adopted and valued by them.

Slide toggle left to reveal the Blue Badge Features on the AppyParking App

Outcomes

The pilot program revealed several positive outcomes, particularly in user engagement and satisfaction:

Metric Result after using the app
Reduction of Anxiety 77%
Improved Journey Experience 60%
Reduction in Parking Distance 80%
Monthly User Return Rate 60%

Blue Badge Usage

97% of respondents found the Blue Badge parking option to be the most useful feature of the app, with the same percentage using the feature regularly.

Knowledge Improvement

83% of participants reported that their knowledge of disabled parking increased over the trial period.

Parking Distance

80% stated that the distance between their parking and destination was reduced by using the app.

”AppyParking+ has been a game-changer for our Blue Badge customers.
Working with AppyWay on the AppyParking+ app has really shown us how technology can improve everyday life for our customers. The app's ability to provide up-to-date information on Blue Badge parking is helping users save time and avoid the frustrations of finding a suitable space.
The fact that 97% of users regularly rely on the Blue Badge feature says it all—it’s become an essential tool for them. We’re thrilled to see how much easier it’s making things for people.

Jonathan JenkinsHead of Innovation at Motability Operations

Maxwell McKnight

The  app helped me save money on parking in Cambridge.

I checked the app and found the correct accessible parking bay

just across the road, avoiding a fine by not parking

in the non-accessible spot. Simple and practical!

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Explore the Story

Results reported

The AppyParking+ app provided significant benefits to Motability Operations customers, particularly those with Blue Badges:

  • Improved Journey Planning

One of the key advantages of the AppyParking+ app is its real-time display of kerbside restrictions, enabling users to plan their parking before setting off. This is especially beneficial for Blue Badge holders, who often face limited options. 

By reducing the guesswork, the app saves time and eases the stress of finding parking in busy areas, helping users reach their destinations more efficiently, whether for appointments, work, or leisure.

  • Visibility of Kerbside Restrictions for Blue Badge Holders

The app’s detailed mapping of Blue Badge parking provided clear, accurate information, allowing users with mobility challenges to quickly find suitable spots. 

It shows locations and relevant restrictions, helping users make informed decisions and park legally and conveniently. This reduced the struggle of finding parking, giving users more time for their activities.

  • Reducing Costs to the User

Parking fines are a costly issue for many Blue Badge holders due to unclear restrictions. The AppyParking+ app reduced this risk by providing accurate, up-to-date parking information, helping users avoid fines and save money. 

By reducing the need to circle for spots or park illegally, the app also lowered fuel costs, cutting overall expenses for disabled drivers.

  • Enhanced Independence

Ultimately, the most profound benefit of the AppyParking+ app was the enhancement of user independence. By simplifying the parking process, the app allowed Blue Badge holders to focus on their appointments, work, or leisure activities without the added stress of searching for accessible parking. 

The ability to plan, locate, and secure parking easily and reliably contributed to a greater sense of autonomy. For many users, this translated into a more confident approach to travelling, knowing that they could rely on the app to guide them to the best available parking options. This increased independence is not just a convenience—it’s a significant improvement in the quality of life, enabling users to lead more active, engaged, and less restricted lives.

Based on the success of the first pilot scheme, Motability Operations has rolled out AppyParking+ to their customers in Liverpool. In 2025 new locations will follow, including Cornwall.

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