Motability Foundation to explore transport accessibility needs of young disabled people
The Motability Foundation has commissioned new research into the transport accessibility needs of young people.
There are over 16 million disabled people in the UK, and the most recent census found that 1.2 million young people in England and Wales identified themselves as disabled, a figure which has more than doubled in the last decade, however, the Motability Foundation found that there is very little research that has been undertaken with young disabled people and the challenges or barriers they face when accessing transport.
The Motability Foundation wants to gain a better understanding of what the transport needs of disabled young people are right now, and their needs as they transition into adulthood to ensure that future transport modes and technologies are accessible to them. With that in mind the research, which will be carried out by Savanta, will have a focus on learning more about the transport experiences of young disabled people between the ages of 15-24.
This research supports the Motability Foundation’s two innovation priorities – finding solutions to improve existing transport and ensuring accessibility is a key part of future transport modes.
Nicola Gampell, Innovation Manager at the Motability Foundation said: “We’re really excited to be getting started on this important research. Savanta will work directly with young disabled people to understand their experiences and views on the accessibility of current transport modes, and the changes they would like to see to ensure their needs are met.”
“Lived experience will be integral to this research, with a peer research group of young disabled people steering the project.”
There are opportunities for young people to get involved in this research as either a focus group participant or a peer researcher. More information on applying for these roles is available here. Findings from the research will be published in October 2024.
The Motability Foundation recently announced that it was helping to fund a London-wide accessible cycle loan scheme, to provide improved options to travel actively for disabled people across the capital.
