TPE launched three brand new initiatives on the International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2021, in a bid to enhance accessibility on their network.
They are the first UK rail operator to introduce GoodMaps, which is a new inclusion tool set to support those in need of additional help navigating train stations throughout the North.
GoodMaps has been likened to ‘Satnav for the inside' and helps to guide people safely through stations whilst providing details of features such as platforms, toilets, ticket offices and the closest coffee shop.
Seven stations on the route between Hull and Manchester Airport have been created for GoodMaps so far, including; Hull, Brough, Selby, Dewsbury, Huddersfield, Stalybridge and Manchester Airport and are available to use now via the free GoodMaps Explore app.
A further rail industry first sees TPE customers able to book assistance can now use a new WhatsApp service which makes organising support at a station even easier than ever and also adds another option for booking Passenger Assist ahead of travelling.
The brand new facility is checked seven days a week from 6am to 11pm (excluding Christmas Day and Boxing Day) and can be accessed on: 07812 223 336.
To request assistance, customers are asked to message ‘Assisted Travel' on the number and a staff member will help organise the booking.
With a continuing commitment to purposeful enhancements, TPE is making both their trains and station even more accessible than ever and have now set up a new Facebook group to develop an online community that customers can use to connect, share ideas and give feedback which is essential to support future improvements.
Anyone with an interest in accessible rail travel is welcome to join the group and share their views and can find the facebook group here: http://facebook.com/groups/accessiblerailtravelwithtpe/
Natasha Marsay, Accessibility and Integration Manager for TransPennine Express, said:
“It's so important that rail is fully inclusive for all our customers and we are over the moon to be introducing not one but three new initiatives that will make things easier for elderly or disabled customers.
“We've recently been awarded Inclusive Transport Committed status as part of the Department for Transport's Inclusive Transport Leaders Scheme, and are thrilled that our efforts to make rail more accessible have been recognised in this way.
“I'd encourage our customers to try these new initiatives out for themselves and I invite people to get in touch and join our new Accessibility Facebook group, where together we can work to discuss new ways of supporting the communities we serve.”
Neil Barnfather, Vice President Europe at GoodMaps, said:
“We have been delighted to work with Natasha and TPE on delivering this game changing solution to passengers accessing the railway network. For decades, assisted travel has been limited to pre-arranged facilitation of segmented journey portions. TPE has recognised the value in empowering commuters to be autonomous and providing true independence. In doing so it has not only radically enhanced the experience for passengers with a disability, it has enhanced the experience for all users of the railway. We look forward to continuing the partnership across the broader rail network, and delivering additional features to the existing implementation over the coming months.”
Peter Osborne, Director of Operations for Guide Dogs, said:
“Having the confidence to independently travel as a blind person is hugely enhanced by the application of groundbreaking technology such as GoodMaps. Train stations can be difficult places to get around and I congratulate and thank TPE for creating an environment we can all access.”
