Post by Deleted on Aug 28, 2012 11:38:13 GMT
Transport for London has issued new guidance to its bus drivers to help improve journeys for Londoners who take bus journeys using wheelchairs and mobility scooters. The guidance is contained in the latest version of the bus drivers' Big Red Book, a practical guide which is issued to all 24,000 drivers in London.
The advice includes:
Making sure the wheelchair bays on buses are clear if a disabled passenger wants to use them.
Drivers should make tannoy announcements asking other passengers to move buggies that are put in the wheelchair bay.
The guide informs drivers which types of wheelchair and mobility scooters can safely board buses.
Drivers are reminded to park as closely to the kerb as possible so wheelchairs can get on to the bus from the pavement.
The advice was drawn up after TFL held a forum with groups for disabled and older passengers. Last month, they launched a Mobility Aid Recognition Card so mobility scooter users can show that their scooter is permitted to go on a bus.
While we already have a very accessible bus service we want to continue to improve – working together with disabled and older passengers to further improve journeys.
– CLARE KAVANAGH, DIRECTOR OF PERFORMANCE FOR LONDON BUSES
All of the 8,500 buses in London are accessible to wheelchairs and have hydraulic ramps. However, only 65% of bus stops are deemed to be accessible to disabled people. TfL says it is working on improving the stops to make them easier to use.
During the Paralympic Games all spectators are advised to plan ahead.Disabled passengers, especially those using wheelchairs or mobility aids, are being offered the following additional advice:
*Plan your journey: *The London 2012 Spectator Journey Planner includes accessible travel options across the UK and spectators are urged to plan ahead.
The advice includes:
Making sure the wheelchair bays on buses are clear if a disabled passenger wants to use them.
Drivers should make tannoy announcements asking other passengers to move buggies that are put in the wheelchair bay.
The guide informs drivers which types of wheelchair and mobility scooters can safely board buses.
Drivers are reminded to park as closely to the kerb as possible so wheelchairs can get on to the bus from the pavement.
The advice was drawn up after TFL held a forum with groups for disabled and older passengers. Last month, they launched a Mobility Aid Recognition Card so mobility scooter users can show that their scooter is permitted to go on a bus.
While we already have a very accessible bus service we want to continue to improve – working together with disabled and older passengers to further improve journeys.
– CLARE KAVANAGH, DIRECTOR OF PERFORMANCE FOR LONDON BUSES
All of the 8,500 buses in London are accessible to wheelchairs and have hydraulic ramps. However, only 65% of bus stops are deemed to be accessible to disabled people. TfL says it is working on improving the stops to make them easier to use.
During the Paralympic Games all spectators are advised to plan ahead.Disabled passengers, especially those using wheelchairs or mobility aids, are being offered the following additional advice:
*Plan your journey: *The London 2012 Spectator Journey Planner includes accessible travel options across the UK and spectators are urged to plan ahead.
www.itv.com/news/london/2012-08-23/bus-drivers-get-wheelchair-advice/
