South Western Railway (SWR) has now begun a new trial to aid those with sight loss.
They are trialling the myEyes app at their stations to guide people through the stations with less issues and more independence.
The app uses the same Near Field Technology as contactless payment by phone. The audio directions guide customers through the station entrance to the South Western Railway Assisted Boarding Points on the platforms and where they can board their trains.
Once activated, the app tracks users via bluetooth beacons installed across the station and will track the device to pinpoint the customer's location to give the best directions possible. The app also provides other information such as lift and stairs location and ticket office location.
The trail began on the 1st of August and will run for three months at Vauxhall and Putney stations. Depending on how the trial goes, the app may be used on more of the networks stations.
Marsha de Cordova, the MP for Battersea, made South Western Railway aware of the technology, as she is visually impaired. Supporting the scheme is RNIB who are the UK's leading sight loss charity.
South Western Railway's Accessibilty Team are encouraging the use of the app and is asking people to leave feedback to help with the trial. The feedback survey can be sent to accessibility@swrailway.com.
Marsha said: “I appreciated how quickly SWR acted on my request and that they recognised the value in ensuring that their train stations are fully accessible and inclusive for all users. Investment to improve access also boosts economic growth in our local economy.
“I know this App could transform travelling for blind and partially sighted people, as ultimately, travelling and navigating around the city is probably one of the biggest challenges that we face.”
Mike Adlington, SWR's Accessibility Manager added: “Unfortunately, it is the case that many people still feel that the railway is too difficult to negotiate with a disability – whether visible or invisible.
“At SWR, we're absolutely determined to change this and make rail travel more accessible for all. The roll-out of this new, cutting-edge technology trial marks a step change in the assistance available to those with sight loss and is one example of how we're working to make our network easier for everyone to use”.
Robin Spinks, RNIB Senior Manager Inclusive Design and Innovation, said: “Travelling independently is one of the biggest challenges for people with sight loss and any technology that can help to make navigating public transport easier can only be a good thing. RNIB is delighted that SWR are taking this step to improve accessibility at their stations”.
Miguel Matias, CEO of Self Energy Ltd said: “It has been a privilege to work with South Western Railway – a company that already has a clear commitment to accessibility which we are helping to extend.
“We hope this pilot will be a success and can be expanded to other stations in future, improving the travel experience for visually impaired people and promoting inclusion and accessibility”
