Travelling by train with a visual impairment should be clear, accessible and manageable, which is how Passenger Assistance can help.
Train stations can be busy and difficult to navigate. Information may not always be easy to find. Platform changes, crowds, announcements and unfamiliar routes can create extra barriers.
Passenger Assistance is there if requesting support before you travel helps you feel more prepared.
Some people prefer to plan ahead. Some people use Turn Up and Go. Others travel spontaneously.
All of these choices are valid.
Learn how Passenger Assistance can support visual access needs
In this video, Blind Tobes shares how Passenger Assistance can support passengers with a visual impairment when travelling by train.
This can include requesting guidance through the station, support finding the right platform or clear information from staff during the journey.
Follow Blind Tobes and Passenger Assistance on Instagram.
What support can you request?
You can request support that works for your journey.
This might include:
- Help finding the right platform
- Support moving through the station
- Guidance to the train
- Help getting on or off the train
- Support changing trains
- Clear information from staff
- Help finding a seat or carriage
- Information about where to go when you arrive
You can add notes in your own words.
This can help staff understand what support has been requested before you arrive.
How Passenger Assistance can help
Passenger Assistance gives you a way to share your access needs before you travel.
You can request assistance through the Passenger Assistance app or website. The app is the easiest way to keep your profile, journey details and assistance requests in one place.
Your request is then sent to the train company supporting your journey.
For a step-by-step guide, read our blog: How to use Passenger Assistance.
Using Ask PA
You can also use Ask PA, the Passenger Assistance WhatsApp service.
Ask PA can help you check station accessibility information, manage your assistance request and get updates while travelling.
This can be useful if you want quick answers before or during your journey.
Read more in our blog: Train assistance on WhatsApp: how to use Ask PA.
Do I have to request assistance?
No.
Passenger Assistance does not replace Turn Up and Go.
Disabled passengers still have the right to travel by train without requesting assistance in advance.
It simply gives you another option if planning ahead works better for you.
Start using Passenger Assistance
Travelling by train with a visual impairment should come with clear information, choice and support.
To request assistance for your next train journey, visit passengerassistance.com or download the Passenger Assistance app.