Transport for disabled people
Disabled travel in London can be without problems if you have the right information before you set out. Wheelchair, mobility scooter users, and the blind that would have the most problems with access getting around London are given the greatest considerations.
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Trains:
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You can give National Rail train companies advance notice if you think you'll need any help from staff.
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You can check if a station has accessible facilities here: https://www.nationalrail.co.uk/stations_destinations/
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Wheelchairs on trains:
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On mainline (intercity, suburban, and cross-country) trains there’s space for your wheelchair. Put your chair in this space and use the brakes (or switch your wheelchair’s power off) when the train’s moving.
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How to get help:
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All licensed train companies must be able to tell you:
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What services and facilities are available
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How to get assistance - including when there is a disruption
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This is called an Accessible Travel Pay (ATP). You can get a copy of an ATP from the train company
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Disabled Person's Railcard:
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If you're eligible you can get up to a third off rail tickets by applying for a disabled person's railcard. You must provide evidence of a relevant disability.
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Report a problem:
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If you're unhappy with the help you get, complain to the train company directly.
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If you cannot resolve the complaint, you may be able to complain to the Rail Ombudsman. They can only consider complaints about companies that have joined the Rail Ombudsman scheme.
Cars, buses and coaches
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Find out what you need to do if you're driving and you have a medical condition or disability, for example learning to drive and getting insured (https://www.gov.uk/driving-medical-conditions). You may also be able to get a Blue Badge so you can park closer to where you want to go (https://www.gov.uk/apply-blue-badge).
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The Mobility Scheme:
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The Mobility Scheme can help you with leasing a car, powered wheelchair, or scooter (https://www.motability.co.uk/).
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You can get a free bus pass for free travel if you're disabled. Passes from councils in England can be used anywhere in England:
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- At any time on a Saturday, Sunday, or bank holiday
- From 9:30 to 11 pm on any other day
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(For travel outside of these times, contact your local council.
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Help to get on and off:
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The law says bus and coach drivers must give reasonable assistance to disabled people, for example by helping them get on and off the bus or coach. This does not mean physically lifting passengers or heavy mobility equipment.
If you need help to get on and off a coach, you should ask for this when you book your ticket.
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Report a problem:
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If you’re unhappy with the help you get, complain to the bus or coach service operator directly.
If you cannot resolve the problem with the operator, contact:
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Bus Users UK for complaints about services outside of London
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London TravelWatch for complaints about services in London
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your local government ombudsman for complaints about bus passes
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