Other Information
Wheelchair and scooters users on public transport
The majority of wheelchair users will be able to travel on accessible public transport. Where services are stated as being accessible, this implies that access is possible for persons using wheelchairs conforming to International Standard ISO 7193, which is a maximum length of 1200mm (47 inches) and maximum width 700mm (27.5 inches). If you are considering the purchase of a wheelchair and intend to use public transport, you are advised to check that the model conforms to International Standard ISO 7193.
Scooters are not allowed on local bus services or the Metro due to scooter design, difficulty in manoeuvring and unsuitability for use in a vehicle. Operators are not legally required to let you travel in a scooter, or if it is believed that your wheelchair is not in a safe condition. For example, for the carriage of lead/acid batteries or inefficient brakes.
Use of scooters on Central Trains services is allowed providing the scooter is maximum length of 1000mm and maximum width 700mm. The maximum combined weight of scooter and passenger is 239kg (36.2 stone), and the scooter must be powered by a sealed battery which should be switched off once the scooter and user are on the train. It must also be possible to fold the scooter down to a reasonable size and for it to be reasonably lightweight and portable if required.
For full details see the leaflet “Powered Scooters – A guide to travelling on Central Trains services” also available in accessible formats from Central Trains Customer Relations telephone 0121 634 2040 or at www.centraltrains.co.uk click on “Your Journey” then “Assisted Travel” then “Publications”
The British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA) have updated their information leaflet “Get wise to using public transport” which has information for wheelchair and scooter users on the use of public transport. Also available is “Get wise to using electric scooters and wheelchairs”. For further details contact-
BHTA, New Loom House, Suite 4.06, 101 Back Church Lane, London E1 1LU
Tel: 020 7702 2141 Fax: 020 7680 4048 Email: bhta@bhta.com
The Department for Transport and Ricability have also produced a guide entitled “ Wheels within Wheels – a guide to using a wheelchair on public transport” which provides information for wheelchairs users on public transport. It has details of wheelchairs available in the UK, and those which are more easily useable on public transport. For further details contact-
Ricability, 30 Angel Gate, City Road, London EC1V 2PT
Tel: 020 7427 2460 Fax: 020 7427 2468 Email: mail@ricability.org.uk
Public Transport Information Services
Information on all local bus, train and Metro services can be obtained through the telephone information service, Traveline. It can help you plan the quickest, most convenient routes as well as provide information on timetables, fares, and special tickets.
The service operates seven days a week from 0730 until 2230, 364 days a year.
Tel: 0871 200 22 33 Minicom 0870 2412216 www.traveline.org.uk
There is a Network West Midlands Local Travel Information Office at Birmingham New Street Station. The office is accessible and an induction loop facility is available at the sales counter. There are also Information Offices at Pool Meadow Bus Station in Coventry, Dudley Bus Station, Wolverhampton Bus Station, St Paul’s Bus Station in Walsall and Merry Hill Bus Station, Brierley Hill.
The information in this section is also available in large print, audio tape, and Braille formats available by telephone on 0121 214 7214 or email customerrelations@centro.org.uk
Language Line, the telephone interpreting system, is available when you call 0121 214 7878
For longer distance rail journeys, telephone the National Rail Enquiries 24 hours service on 08457 48 49 50 Minicom 0845 60 50 600.
National Rail’s website at www.nationalrail.co.uk has a variety of information including timetables and a dedicated section on rail travel for disabled passengers.
DPTAC have developed a website to give disabled people information and advice on travel, including holidays. www.dptac.gov.uk/door-to-door
Tickets please pads
Centro-WMPTA produces a note pad to assist people with communications difficulties to buy tickets on buses or for train journeys. The pad contains 50 tear-off slips, each of which states that the bearer may have a speech or hearing impairment. The user completes the slip with the required ticket information, and hands it to the person selling the ticket. After payment a ticket would then be issued for the journey. The Tickets Please pad is only available to West Midlands residents.
To receive a free Tickets Please pad, please telephone on 0121 214 7214 or email customerrelations@centro.org.uk