Try a Train Workshop by Anya, Travel Buddy Worker
We walked to Brighton station and met the trainees from The Reach at 9.45 am. We were able to buy our tickets from the ticket office. Some of the trainees needed help with this and we coached them on what to ask for. Next, we showed the trainees the new green information boards which some of them found quite useful.
We then showed the trainees the ticket barriers and talked about how they can ask for special assistance. Some needed to walk to the front of the train to use the ramp to get on to the train – it was a bit daunting as it was steep, but everyone got on successfully. Hayley (support worker) and I went with the more mobile trainees who were very keen to get on the train. Everyone found a seat. I found where the rest of the group were sat which l felt proud of as the train was moving. I used the handrails to help keep my balance and the train was not as bumpy as the bus so I felt confident. Claire (team leader) explained to the group what the priority seats are and that the groups can sit there too. Hayley joined us and the rest of the trainees and we all sat together. Claire explained that everyone needed to be ready to get off the train quickly as it wouldn’t wait for us. Everyone got off at Lewes station.
We met with the station manager Charlotte and Zack, one of the passenger assistants. They showed us the passenger lounge which also had a sponsored bookcase. The group checked out the accessible toilet and tried their Radar keys. We then looked at the accessible help point. You wave your hand over the screen. A call then goes through to Zack who will come to assist.
Everyone stopped for a break at the station cafe and filled out some feedback forms about the morning. Most of the group took the lift to the platform. We then visited the other passenger lounge and looked at when the next train back to Brighton would be.
Zack was waiting on the platform with the ramp. Everyone got on the train. Claire talked to everyone about the accessibility phone line. I helped people to put the number in their phones. We all got off at Brighton station. Claire, Hayley and I helped the trainees to scan their tickets at the barrier. Everyone enjoyed it and was in good spirits.
“I didn’t realise I could ask for help!” – Anne, Workshop attendee
“It feels good to know there are people who can help me.” – Julie, Workshop attendee
All the participants said they enjoyed the experience and were surprised how easy it was and how helpful the staff were. They all ticked the box on the feedback form to say they felt more confident about attempting a train journey.
Thank you to Govia Thameslink for supporting us with the tickets to take the journey and encouraging those with additional needs to ‘Try a Train’.
Find out more about Travel Buddy or read about Anya’s story from learning to travel independently to working for the Travel Buddy project herself.