Having dementia should not stop you from independent train travel. Did you know you can share your dementia specific access needs with Passenger Assistance to ensure that your journey is clear, accessible and manageable.
Train travel can involve a lot of information. There may be times, platforms, changes, announcements and busy station environments to think about.
For some people living with dementia, unclear information or unfamiliar journeys can create extra barriers.
Passenger Assistance is there if requesting support before you travel helps you feel more prepared.
Meet Ronnie
Ronnie’s story shows how Passenger Assistance can support confidence and independence after a dementia diagnosis. She shares how being able to request assistance can make train travel feel more manageable.
You can also read Ronnie’s full story: Holding On to Independence: Ronnie’s Story of Confidence After Dementia.
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
- Clear information from staff
- Help changing trains
- Support if plans change
- Extra time to board
- Help getting on or off the train
You can also 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.
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.
Passenger Assistance simply gives you another option if planning ahead works better for you.
Start using Passenger Assistance
Travelling by train with dementia 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.