TransPennine Express unveils new initiatives to improve accessibility for rail passengers
Train operator TransPennine Express has introduced three brand new initiatives in a bid to enhance accessibility on its network in Northern England and Scotland.
It is the first UK rail operator to introduce GoodMaps, an app which guides blind and other users around stations to help them find features such as platforms, toilets, ticket offices and coffee shops.
The app uses LIDAR and image recognition data, and does not require fixed infrastructure such as Bluetooth beacons inside a building.
Seven stations on the route between Hull and Manchester Airport have been created for GoodMaps so far, including; Hull, Brough, Selby, Dewsbury, Huddersfield, Stalybridge and Manchester Airport and are available to use now via the free GoodMaps Explore app.
Neil Barnfather, Vice-President Europe at GoodMaps, commented: “Whilst the technology enhances the travelling experience for all passengers, the solution is an absolute revolution to those with disabilities, for whom accessing public transport autonomously is often cumbersome and lacking in true independence.
“We look forward to continuing the partnership across the broader rail network, and delivering additional features to the existing implementation over the coming months.”
In a further accessibility initiative, TransPennine Express customers can now book assistance can now use a new WhatsApp service which makes organising support at a station even easier than ever and also adds another option for booking Passenger Assist ahead of travelling.
The brand new facility, which can be accessed on: 07812 223 336, is checked seven days a week. To request assistance, customers are asked to message ‘Assisted Travel’ on the number and a staff member will help organise the booking.
With a continuing commitment to purposeful enhancements, the operator has also set up a Facebook group to build an online community where customers can connect, share ideas and provide feedback on accessibility.
Natasha Marsay, Accessibility and Integration Manager for TransPennine Express, said: “It’s so important that rail is fully inclusive for all our customers and we are over the moon to be introducing not one but three new initiatives that will make things easier for elderly or disabled customers.
“We’ve recently been awarded Inclusive Transport Committed status as part of the Department for Transport’s Inclusive Transport Leaders Scheme, and are thrilled that our efforts to make rail more accessible have been recognised in this way.”
https://thiis.co.uk/transpennine-express-unveils-number-initiatives-to-improve-accessibility-for-rail-passengers/https://thiis.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/TPE-launches-new-enhancements-making-rail-even-more-accessible-002.jpghttps://thiis.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/TPE-launches-new-enhancements-making-rail-even-more-accessible-002-150x150.jpgNewsroomSector NewsAccessibility,passengers,rail,TransPennine Express,WhatsAppTrain operator TransPennine Express has introduced three brand new initiatives in a bid to enhance accessibility on its network in Northern England and Scotland. It is the first UK rail operator to introduce GoodMaps, an app which guides blind and other users around stations to help them find features such...Liane McIvorLiane McIvorliane@thiis.co.ukEditorTHIIS Magazine