DB Regio, who operate the Tyne and Wear Metro concession, have rolled out vision awareness training to frontline staff across the network. This means blind or partially sighted travellers can be assured that there will be an understanding of their needs from the people there to help them safely get from A to B across Tyneside and Wearside. This training has been provided by a local organisation of visually impaired trainers called Eye Wish Access.
Prior to introducing new staffed ticket barriers, many Blind or Partially Sighted People were concerned what help would be available when people walked onto the system to get through the barriers and make their way to the platforms when the barriers were in operation.
RNIB have a long record of lobbying for access improvements from passenger transport executive, Nexus. At an RNIB Member's Forum, campaign volunteers and members were able to discuss their concerns with representatives from all the organisations responsible for the Metro light rail system. Joyce Anderson who is part of the Eye Wish Access training team and also a volunteer in the Northumberland Action Group has been involved with delivering the training.
Joyce said "the vision awareness training we delivered was very well received by the Metro staff. They much appreciated the information that we were able to give them about approaching and offering support to visually impaired people on the system."
To find out more about Eye Witness Training email: maureengillman@sky.com