11 July 2012 TfL launch new card scheme for buses
Transport for London has introduced a new Mobility Aid Recognition Scheme ahead of the Olympics this year. It would benefit regular users of London's public transport and those who are local would probably find out about the scheme straight away.
Whilst it may appear upon first sight to be a good idea, there are some issues that need to be addressed before the new scheme will truly benefit all disabled people.
The Transport for London website details the Mobility Aid Recognition Scheme as follows;
Customers who wish to be part of the scheme should first contact our Travel Mentoring Service who will ask you a few questions to check that your mobility aid is suited to bus travel. Whilst most wheelchairs and some mobility scooters will fit on London's buses, some are too large, so we need to understand which mobility aid you will be using. You will then be offered the opportunity of an accompanied journey to check the suitability and size of your device.
If your mobility aid is suited to bus travel, you will be given a 'Mobility Aid Card' which you can keep with you and show to bus drivers so they know your device is suited to bus travel.
Trailblazers think the scheme has some great positive aspects, such as bus drivers being able to recognise without difficulty who can definitely use the bus. It will also allow the bus driver to establish those passengers who may need more time to reach their seat before continuing their journey.
On the other hand, people who are not local to London will perhaps not have heard of the scheme and as such potentially may be refused travel on the bus.
We would love to hear your views on the scheme and any ideas you might have that could improve the service that Transport for London provides for disabled people.
Here is the link to the Transport for London website where more information about the Mobility Aid Recognition Scheme can be found.
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