Trains

Overview
Role of the working group
What we have done
What we are doing
Top Tips

Overview

Everyone should be able to get to, and use, rail services, including stations and trains. For many people this is not currently possible due to barriers created by the design, management and operation of the rail system or difficulties getting to services.

The Government has asked DPTAC to advise on why this is the case and recommend strategic actions to address problems facing disabled people when rail services. Much is already being done.

The Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) 1995 aims to prevent the discrimination of disabled people and to ensure rail services are accessible. All new rail vehicles have to meet Rail Vehicle Accessibility Regulations (RVAR). By 2004 those rail stations will have to ensure they have removed barriers to disabled people.

Network Rail has a duty to publish a Code of Practice on meeting the needs of disabled passengers, having previously been the responsibility of the Office of the Rail Regulator. A new Code of Practice is expected shortly.

Transport 2010: The 10 Year Plan for Transport makes a commitment that accessibility for disabled people will be a condition of public money being spent. The rail industry should have to demonstrate compliance with the Code of Practice and guidance on meeting the needs of disabled people if they are to receive public subsidy and investment.

Yet problems remain.

Role of the working group

The Rail Working Group (RWG) was established in 1994 following the privatisation of British Rail and replaced the British Rail Advisory Group.

Our main objective is to advise on improving access to rail services for disabled people, taking into account complementary advice from other DPTAC Working Groups.

Our membership includes representatives from disability interests and those concerned with the regulation and operation of the rail system. We also have observers from the Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions and other Government agencies.

Our role is to focus on the strategic issues. This enables DPTAC to be more effective in influencing the process and outcome in all areas rather than specific schemes. Our work helps to inform those seeking to improve access at a local level. Local people will be aware of how this guidance can be applied to local circumstances.

In 1999 we established a Rail Vehicles exemptions sub-group to advise the Minister on applications by train operators for exemptions from the Rail Vehicle Accessibility Regulations (RVAR).

We advocate the promotion of an accessible transport system in the advice we give to Government.

An accessible transport system is one that recognises the need for every stage in the journey to be accessible to disabled people. It sets out to include as many people as possible. It does not attempt to meet every single need. Rather, by considering people's diversity, accessible transport systems try to break down unnecessary barriers and exclusion. In doing so it will often achieve superior solutions that benefit everyone.

What we have done

Recently we have;

• responded to: Department for Transport's consultation on the Government's proposals to amend the Rail Provisions in Part V of the Disability Discrimination Act
• Advised the Minister on applications for exemptions from the Rail Vehicle Accessibility Regulations;
• Produced advice to short listed bidders for rail franchise replacements;
• Held regular meetings with the Shadow Strategic Rail Authority;
• Met with the Rail Passengers Council.

What we are doing

We are currently considering the following;

• developing relationships with key players in the rail industry;
• providing advice on the rail franchise replacement process;
• advise on an 'end date' for meeting accessibility standards and for refurbishing rolling stock;
• provide input to the Strategic Code of Practice on Meeting the Needs of Disabled Passengers;
• review the regulatory requirements for access in licences and franchises;
• continue to advise the Minister on exemptions from the Rail Vehicle Accessibility Regulations.

We welcome your comments and views on the issues raised above and any priorities not considered. Click here to e-mail us ideas.

Top Tips

If you are a rail operator;

• Ensure your staff can demonstrate qualifications and competencies in access issues. Training courses are available;
• Ensure you follow recommended guidelines on access;
• Regularly review access for disabled people, perhaps using the experiences of disabled people with a range of impairments;
• Publish information on what you provide for disabled people;
• Ask disabled people what problems they experience using your services.

If you are a disabled person;

• Contact your local Rail Passenger Council if you want to get more closely involved;
• Plan ahead and book assistance if required.

If you develop rail vehicles and facilities;

• Be aware of the guidance and good practice on accessible rail services.
• Consult disabled people when designing new products.

• Publications & other resources
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