DfT Inclusive Transport Strategy published

DfT has today (25 July) published its Inclusive Transport Strategy, which includes:

• £300 million of funding to make railway stations more accessible
• £2 million to install Changing Places toilets at motorway service stations, supporting disabled people to travel easily and comfortably on the road network
• £2 million for audio and visual equipment on buses, so passengers on almost every bus will know where and when to alight

How this applies to coaches

The Inclusive Transport Strategy also includes raising awareness and enforcement of passengers' rights, staff training and improvements to accessible information.

DVSA is committed to increasing accessibility and has recently reminded coach operators of their responsibilities towards passengers with disabilities.

Specifically, they must:

• make sure wheelchair users can use available wheelchair spaces, including those that require the removal, folding or tipping of other seats
• not require passengers who use wheelchairs to book any further in advance than passengers who don’t

This reminder followed evidence received by DVSA of 3 coach operators requiring passengers using wheelchairs to book the wheelchair space before they travelled, even though wheelchair spaces were available.

We will not hesitate in taking action against companies that are breaking the law.