Why are we taking action?

By law, new trains must have audio-visual (AV) information systems on board, and these make rail travel user-friendly for everyone.  But the same law does not apply to buses.  We think it should – and we are calling for the government to change the Public Service Vehicle Accessibility Regulations (PSVAR) to require “audio-visual information systems” on new buses and coaches.

Our Forgotten Passengers report as well as our earlier research report has shown that the lack of information on board buses make blind and partially-sighted people dependent on the help of other passengers or the driver, and they often end up feeling anxious, and vulnerable.  Many give up using the bus altogether.  No-one should be prevented from using public transport because of a lack of clear and accessible information.

As well as blind and partially-sighted people, ‘Talking Buses’ will help other people – including the elderly, people with hearing impairments and learning disabilities – by making them feel reassured that clear and timely information is always available.  This will also benefit passengers unfamiliar with the area or bus route, including tourists.

Our Recommendations:

• National government to amend the PSVAR to require audio-visual information systems on new buses

• In the meantime, local government and bus operators to look at ways to make bus services more accessible for blind and partially-sighted people, including providing audio-visual announcements