URGENT

We don’t often write about regional specific items – but today because there is a time limit, I’d like to urge everyone to read the below and take action if you are in the UK – regarding the industry body Rail Delivery Group (RDG) proposals for ticket office closures across UK railway stations.

As deaf people, we all understand the issues of travelling by rail and not being able to understand announcements – even when the station is quiet. With service changes, trains that whoosh through (not stopping) and instructions to get into the front / back of the train at a moments notice – these can all lead to panic and frustration.

What is vital, is to have staff available who can not only offer advice but can also clarify items which we cannot understand. Like many, I have questions about my journeys and I cannot understand an announcement, a ‘help point’ or an electronic voice.  I need to know exactly where to find someone to help me.

We have many community members who are not only deaf but also disabled in other ways when it comes to travelling by rail – and I should also mention the elderly who often require assistance boarding and carrying their luggage on / off the train. Knowing where to find staff for assistance is vital.

We must implore the Secretary of State to uphold their duty to the Equality Act and make sure that we have our say in decisions that affect our lives. This would be disastrous for many.

Please take action if this affects you and visit: Transport for All who have set up a template letter making it easy to copy / paste and insert your own lived experience about travelling by rail and why its vital for you to have ticket offices and staff present at your railway station.

The current consultation deadline is Wednesday, 26 July 2023 so please take a moment to do this as soon as possible and make sure your voice is heard (only if you’re in the UK).

We appreciate all the support from our community members in Deaf Club and if you have hearing loss or you’re D/deaf you can join us here: Deaf.Club  or simply support us here:  Support our Community

Thank You.