EXCLUSIVE
Genuine wheelchair-bound model tries to get on a train. (Image: Handout)
An expert has compiled her top tips to help wheelchair users enjoy train travel – after the Daily Express backed 13-year-old Zach Eagling’s incredible Right to Ride campaign. In our newspaper, Zach candidly revealed his struggles with public transport and train travel, in particular, shed light on the challenges faced by the 1.37 million wheelchair users in England.
The schoolboy, who suffers from cerebral palsy and epilepsy, has recently set up a petition calling on the Government to do more to make train, bus and other services more inclusive. Now, to highlight the issue, Wendy Busby – clinical trainer at Sunrise Medical who helps wheelchair users with their devices – has compiled her advice on how new they can best tackle train travel until Zach’s changes are finally realised.
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Model in her electric wheelchair boards a train. (Image: Handout)
She said: “Travelling by train is an essential part of most people’s daily routines, whether it’s commuting to work or to travel between destinations for leisure.
“Sadly, Zach’s experience with accessible train travel will sound all too familiar to many people with reduced mobility and wheelchair users. While some progress has been made with making train travel accessible, there are still physical gaps at both train stations and on the trains that create challenges for manual and powered wheelchair users.
“Although train operators have a responsibility to ensure train travel is accessible for everyone, here are my tips for how wheelchair users can navigate train travel with greater ease.”
The youngster, from West Yorkshire, previously successfully campaigned with the Express for a law against cruel trolls trying to provoke seizures in people with epilepsy by sending them flashing images online.
Now, the Express is backing his new campaign with our Zach’s Right to Ride crusade. Zach said he believes a “nationwide problem which needs rectification” exists.
He said: “I wanted to start the petition because as a wheelchair user, days out and trips that require using public transport have to have more planning than an able-bodied person. Accessing public transport is a bit of a lottery because if another wheelchair user is using that bus or train which you need to use, you can’t because there are limited accessible seats.
“From my experience of booking assistance, it is relatively simple to organise. However, the unreliability and punctuality sometimes have to lead to members of the public helping.”
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At the moment the youngster travels with his parents, but he added: “As I become older, I worry about being restricted about where I can get to.”
He calls for three main changes, including more accessible seats on buses and trains. He also wants a more reliable service from assistance staff at train stations and airports so the public does not have to step in.
He is also calling for greater care when wheelchairs are taken in and out of the hold on aeroplanes.
Zach’s mum, Claire Keer, 43, said they “frequently” have problems when using public transport.
She said: “The whole planning process isn’t as simple as just an able-bodied person turning up to catch a bus or a train or a plane. Assistance has to be booked, you have to be on the exact same train. If you do end up running into any delays yourself to get that your assistance isn’t booked for the next train.
“Whilst boarding is quite often easy, when you come to get off any public transport at the other end that requires assistance sometimes you are left wondering if anyone is going to turn up to help you.”
Their heartbreaking plea has now prompted Wendy to give our readers her top advice on how to best tackle train travel – showing her advice with a wheelchair-bound model posing for photographs.
Zach Eagling campaingning for better wheelchair access to public transport (Image: Andy Stenning/Daily Express)
WENDY’S TOP TIPS:
1. Research accessibility features
“Not all train stations are created equally, and with many train stations located in historic buildings, there’s still a way to go in making train travel accessible for all.
“Before booking trains, I’d recommend using resources like station guides or railway apps, such as The Passenger Assistance App by Transreport and National Rail’s Accessibility Maps to identify accessibility features.
“Key features to look for include step-free access, elevators, and accessible restrooms at both your departure and destination stations.
“On the train itself, confirming that there are designated wheelchair-friendly spaces, accessible restrooms and boarding ramps will provide peace of mind before starting your journey.”
2. Book assistance in advance
“Most rail companies have assistance services as part of their accessible train travel options that can be booked at least 24 to 48 hours in advance and will significantly improve the travel experience for wheelchair users.
“Assistance services can help with boarding and alighting, providing ramps and other aids, as well as guiding you through the station.
“If you haven’t had confirmation of your assistance request, I recommend following up with the rail provider as your travel date approaches.”
Medical equipment expert Wendy Busby. (Image: Sunrise Medical)
3. Reserve a wheelchair space
“Wheelchair spaces on trains are often limited, so it’s essential to make a reservation. Keep in mind that the size of designated wheelchair spaces can vary depending on the train, so I recommend checking the dimensions of your manual or powered wheelchair to ensure you have enough room to travel comfortably.
“Having a portable power wheelchair is ideal for train travel as it is super lightweight and can be folded for storage during the journey.
“It’s perfect for users who need a powered option, and the compact nature of the power chair means it can fit in tight spaces.
“Additionally, requesting a seat near an accessible restroom can add convenience to your journey, allowing you to prepare for the rest of your day.”
4. Prepare for delays and challenges
“Arriving at the train station early gives you more time to handle unexpected situations. This allows you to navigate the station, meet assistance staff with ample time, and board the train without feeling rushed.
“Delays in train travel are always a concern, so having a backup plan, such as knowing the nearest taxi service or accessible transportation options in case of disruptions, can help alleviate challenges.
5. Carrying travel essentials
“Having a well-organised wheelchair bag that attaches to the wheelchair can make your journey more comfortable and stress-free.
“Inside the bag, I’d recommend storing cushions, lumbar supports, or blankets for added comfort during the journey. Carrying a small set of tools for quick adjustments or minor repairs, like tightening bolts or fixing a wobbly wheel, can also be very useful.
“Electric power wheelchairs allow for greater independence with accessible train travel as wheelchair users don’t have to rely as heavily on assistance from others, which will boost confidence when it comes to taking train journeys.
“Having a powered wheelchair with a reliable battery life will ensure you have power throughout your travel. Additionally, having a wheelchair charger provides a safety net for longer journeys, ensuring mobility isn’t compromised, particularly during extended waits or unexpected layovers.
“Travelling with water, snacks, books and headphones can also help pass the time and make your journey more enjoyable.
“Despite the challenges, many wheelchair users find joy and freedom in train travel. With preparation, the right resources, and asking for help when it’s needed, travelling by rail as a wheelchair user can be an empowering experience.”