In News

Did you know that disabled people travel up to a third less than non-disabled people? Did you also know that one in four disabled people have experienced a negative response from other passengers? Well, now you do, so here are a few ways that you can help your fellow passengers while you’re on your daily commute.

The government has recently launched its It’s Everyone’s Journey campaign which aims to make public transport more accessible and also to highlight how other passengers can help make the journey more pleasant for those that need extra help.

It’s Everyone’s Journey is part of the Government’s Inclusive Transport Strategy, which is working to make public transport as accessible as possible and involves making changes to bus and train stations as well as to the London underground. Part of the strategy involves offering up to date advice and support to disabled passengers and staff training, but it also aims to highlight how other passengers can work together.

The campaign has offered some simple steps that can go a long way to help make a journey much easier for those with additional accessibility needs.

  1. Give up your seat if you don’t need it.
    We know that no one likes to talk when we’re on public transport, the aim is to get on and get off again as quickly as possible. However, if it is busy and you have a seat and you notice that there is a fellow passenger who looks like they might need it more, there is nothing wrong with checking if they would rather have it. Giving up your seat is one of the easiest things you can do to make someone’s journey more pleasant.
  2. Don’t take up the priority spaces
    It is estimated that there are over 800,000 people who need to use a wheelchair or other mobility aid. While buses and trains do have a dedicated space for those using aids to be able to travel comfortably, they are often taken up with luggage and other items. Make sure to leave the priority space free, even if there isn’t anyone currently on the train or bus that needs it, you never know when someone is going to board and will need to use the space.
  3. Be considerate
    Trains have quiet carriages for a reason and public transport can already be overwhelming for passengers with additional needs, so try to be as quiet and considerate as you can. If you need to take a phone call, do so discreetly and if you want to listen to music, use headphones.
  4. Don’t push your way on board
    It’s the most common sight at train and bus stations, everyone crowds around the doors trying to get on first. The things is, passengers who have visual or hearing impairments won’t necessarily see or hear others jostling to get to the front and those with hidden disabilities may need a little more space and time to get on board. Try to be respectful and aware of the people around you.

    Do you have any other suggestions for how to make public transport a more welcoming place for passengers with additional needs? You can let us know on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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