Transport survey for people with disabilities and their carers

The practical issues faced by people with disabilities when they use public transport are being put under the spotlight in a survey to be carried out by the local access advisory forum and the Royal Borough.

Over the next two months online and face-to-face consultations will focus on finding out what disabled people think about public transport and then, using their views and experiences, the aim is to influence future planning and facilities for disabled people 'on the move'.

Dr Mike Bruton, access advisory forum chairman and wheelchair user, explained: "Almost half of disabled people in England and Wales say they experience difficulty with travelling, including public transport. I no longer drive myself and a combination of disappointing experiences and a lack of confidence make me unwilling to use public transport without a certainty that assistance is available.

"By gathering information from disabled people we hope to better understand the true nature of difficulties encountered and we will then work with transport providers and the council to have a direct say in the way facilities are planned and then work to bring about necessary improvements."

Cllr Geoff Hill, cabinet member for highways and transport, said: "Public transport is a vital service for everyone in our community. It is essential to ensure that the means of transport and the infrastructure are as inclusive as possible The aim is to smooth out journeys for disabled people going to school or work, accessing healthcare services, shopping and using leisure facilities."

The survey is open to everyone with a disability and their carers or guardians:
• online at www.surveymonkey.com/s/AAFTransportSurvey
• by requesting a survey form at highways@rbwm.gov.uk
• by calling by calling Jim Sloan on 01628 635363.
The closing date for responses is Friday 19 April 2013.

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