TPT raises accessibility issues in Network Rail stations
Thomas Pocklington Trust has written to the Chief Executive of Network Rail, asking for clarification around the operator’s plans for making their railway stations more accessible. This is as part of the charity’s #MakeTransportAccessible campaign.
Trains are a great transport solution for blind and partially sighted people but more must be done to ensure blind and partially sighted people can rely on accessible trains – which starts at the stations.
This year, Bristol Sight Council worked closely with Network Rail to launch a first-of-its-kind audio guide to assist blind and partially sighted people to navigate around Bristol Temple Meads railway station.
The guide comprises 12 audio files accessible from any personal device, such as a smartphone or tablet. Each file guides the listener safely through a section of the station, making it far easier to navigate for blind and partially sighted people.
This work represents a landmark for blind and partially sighted people. This is because, for the first time, blind and partially sighted people are able to navigate a Network Rail station using an audio guide.
Our letter asks for Network Rail’s plans to extend this to other railway stations across the network, and offers to build on and support the work through the Sight Loss Councils.
Publication date: 24 April 2023