People with disabilities in Wales continue to face everyday challenges when using trains in the region, according to recent reports. Issues such as access to ramps and lack of support at many stations persist, making train travel difficult for disabled individuals in Wales.
New statistics for 2023/24 reveal a surge in customers using Transport for Wales’ passenger assist service, aimed at offering additional support to those in need, including disabled passengers. The service assists passengers in completing their journey safely by providing help with finding a seat, making connections, and deploying ramps, among other forms of assistance.
The data shows a significant increase in the number of people pre-booking assistance, with over 61,000 individuals availing of the service in 2023/24, marking a 20% rise from the previous year. Two regular users of the passenger assist service, Leandra Craine and Kat Watkins, shared their experiences with WalesOnline, highlighting some of the barriers they encounter when using trains in Wales.
Leandra, an autistic Business and Membership Officer at Disability Wales, relies on a rollator mobility aid due to a physical impairment. She commended the service’s new app, which streamlines the booking process, making it quicker and more accessible for her. Leandra noted how the service significantly reduces her travel anxiety, especially during connecting train journeys.
Similarly, Kat, an Access to Politics Project Officer at Disability Wales who uses an electric wheelchair, praised the passenger assist team, which has alleviated her previous travel anxieties. However, both women emphasised the need for more dedicated passenger assist staff and enhanced accessibility at more stations across Wales.
They cited challenges such as busy trains, limited coach numbers, and inadequate station facilities, with particular criticism reserved for Cathays railway station. Leandra and Kat called for comprehensive disability equality training for all staff members to improve the overall experience for disabled passengers.
While Transport for Wales acknowledges the positive impact of the passenger assist service, they recognise the need for ongoing improvements, such as increased staff numbers, enhanced station facilities, and universally accessible ramps on all trains. The spokesperson for TfW outlined ongoing initiatives to improve accessibility and assured that progress is being made to address existing issues.
In conclusion, disabled passengers in Wales acknowledge the positive steps taken by Transport for Wales but stress the importance of sustained efforts to enhance accessibility and inclusivity across the rail network. By addressing these concerns, the aim is to create a more seamless and stress-free travel experience for all passengers, irrespective of their abilities.