RNID is calling on people who are deaf or have hearing loss to share their travel experiences in the first national survey of its kind.
The charity, which supports more than 18 million people across the UK, aims to identify the specific barriers faced when using public transport systems.
The survey is part of a significant project funded by the Motability Foundation. Launched last year, the initiative will culminate in a detailed report and a series of recommendations. These findings will be used to influence transport providers, technology companies, and policymakers to improve inclusivity.
Auracast could be a major boost for passengers as they travel. The Bluetooth LE Audio standard allows audio sources, such as public address systems, to broadcast directly to an unlimited number of headphones, hearing aids, cochlear implants, and earbuds.
This technology is being trialled at Bristol Temple Meads railway station, enabling passengers to hear announcements clearly amidst background noise.
Frankie Garforth, Head of Inclusion at RNID, wants as many people as possible to take part in the survey.
“Public transport should be accessible to everyone. However, right now, that’s not the reality for many people who are deaf or have hearing loss,” she said.
“This survey is a crucial opportunity to share your experiences of using public transport. By taking part, you’ll be contributing to one of the most comprehensive pieces of evidence ever gathered on the accessibility of public transport for people who are deaf or have hearing loss in the UK.
“It’s vital that we capture experiences directly from people who are deaf or have hearing loss. Whether you live in a city or rural area, whether you take public transport regularly or avoid it altogether – we want to hear from you. Your answers will be invaluable in helping us push for real, lasting improvements.”
This view was echoed by Chelsea Fleming, Programme Director of Transport Solutions at the Motability Foundation, who said that accessible transport must work for everyone.
“Through our funding, research and partnerships, we are working to improve today’s transport systems while ensuring accessibility is built into future design and innovation,” she continued.
“We’re proud to fund RNID’s research, which will generate important new evidence about the barriers people who are deaf or have hearing loss face. By putting lived experience at its heart, this work will inform practical recommendations and help drive lasting change across the transport system.
“We encourage people to take part and share their experiences – their voices are vital to making transport truly inclusive.”
To maintain the focus on genuine user needs, RNID is working alongside an advisory board of people with lived experience.
The charity is particularly interested in hearing from urban commuters, those in rural areas, ferry users, and people with multiple disabilities.
They also want to hear from those who have used Passenger Assistance Services and people who avoid public transport altogether.
The survey remains open until Monday, 13 April. It is available in both English and British Sign Language (BSL). Carers and travel companions are also permitted to complete the survey on behalf of someone who is deaf or has hearing loss. Participants have the option to enter a prize draw upon completion, provided they are UK residents aged 18 or older.
You can access the survey directly through the official RNID website. For more information on the project or to share your experiences, visit www.rnid.org.uk/transport-survey
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