In a pioneering initiative aimed at enhancing accessibility on the region’s rail network, Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) has launched a trial of a groundbreaking app at Brighton station. The app connects blind and partially sighted individuals with remote advisors who utilise the passenger’s smartphone camera to swiftly guide them through railway stations to the assistance of station staff.
Passengers at Brighton, Stevenage, London Blackfriars, and East Croydon stations now have the option to seek guidance from an advisor via a phone call, who can assist them with various tasks such as checking departure boards, locating platforms, finding staff members, ticket machines, or toilets.
The cost of the service will be covered by GTR during this trial period, which involves four stations. The app being trialed is a reputable third-party application called Aira, available for download from both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.
The rollout of this app is being supported by regional groups of blind and partially sighted volunteers known as Sight Loss Councils, funded by the Thomas Pocklington Trust. These councils prioritise improving access to public transport, as 65% of surveyed blind and partially sighted individuals revealed that public transport accessibility is of paramount importance to them. These findings were part of the Thomas Pocklington Trust and Sight Loss Councils’ Listening Month campaign.
Carl Martin, GTR’s Accessibility Lead, expressed the company’s commitment to ensuring that all passengers feel confident when traveling, regardless of their disabilities or need for assistance. GTR constantly seeks innovative methods to enhance the support offered to blind and partially sighted customers, with the aim of empowering them to take control of their journeys.
Linn Davies, a member and volunteer of the East Sussex Sight Loss Council from Brighton, shared her experience of using the Aira app at Brighton station. Davies emphasized the vital role public transport plays in the lives of blind and partially sighted individuals, enabling them to access work, medical appointments, and social engagements. Her use of the app showcased the true essence of independence, as the remote agent efficiently guided her to the ticket office and later to a ticket machine, providing meticulous descriptions of her surroundings, including details like floor cones and approaching individuals with suitcases. Davies eagerly anticipates utilising the app during her future travels.
David Smith, the Sight Loss Council Engagement Manager, expressed his belief that everyone should have the ability to travel independently and safely, living the lives they aspire to. He commended the ongoing collaboration with transport providers, including the development of innovative work practices and the trial of new apps, as instrumental in realising this vision.
