Apr 18

Disability Access To Improve In 73 Train Stations

Matthew

Disabled people know how difficult it can be to make even the simplest journey due to a lack of accessible routes across Britain’s rail network. That is why the government has pledged £300 million to transform 73 train stations to help disabled rail passengers across the UK.

The Access For All Funding will help to create a fully inclusive transport network within the next five years.

Large-scale improvements will be made with this finance, including building footbridges and installing lifts.

Transport accessibility minister Nusrat Ghani said: “We want the 13.9 million disabled people in Britain to be empowered to travel independently, which is why I am delighted to announce this roll out of upgrades across the rail network.”

The 73 stations that will see these improvements were chosen due to their proportion of disabled passengers, proximity to hospital, to represent geographical spread across the UK, and their value for money.

Another 1,500 stations will see smaller upgrades for disabled passengers, including platform humps, improvements for those who are visually or hearing impaired, and accessible toilets.

Earlier this year, US vlogger Shane Burcaw, who has a muscle-wasting disease, posted a video on social media about his embarrassing experience using toilet facilities at St Pancras International station.

Needing to use a travel urinal, he struggled to find a pull-down table to be able to position the device upon, resulting in him having to put it on the dirty floor instead.

His story was picked up by major news providers across the UK, highlighting the lack of facilities for disabled people in some of the country’s biggest rail hubs.

While those with disabilities can often find public facilities challenging, it is important to feel comfortable in your own home. Having easy access showers or walk-in baths can give people much-needed independence.

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