The ‘Travelling with Confidence’ programme has been developed in light of evidence showing the large proportion of disabled people facing barriers using rail, and how these can be reduce. Research by Scope shows 54% of disabled people often or always feel anxious using public transport, and 30% say difficulties with public transport reduce their mobility.

Experience in community rail demonstrates the benefits that can be unlocked through empowering disabled people through meaningful engagement and change to break down barriers, opening up rail and connected sustainable modes of travel.

The programme will involve four core delivery partners, building on their substantive experience in this area of work: Community Rail Lancashire; Gloucestershire CRP; Severnside CRP; and Southeast Communities CRP. They will be working with local inclusion and disability partners, aiming to engage 1,500 disabled people with diverse needs and lived experiences, developing their skills and awareness and providing enriching rail travel experiences, while drawing on their input and enabling them to shape their involvement.

Community Rail Network will coordinate the programme, gather evidence and insights, and involve its wider membership of 75 community rail partnerships and 325 station groups, to share good practice and support wider activity. This will include providing small grants and advice to help more of its members set up similar initiatives in their local areas, aiming to empower hundreds more people, and build a lasting legacy.

Read more about the programme and hear from the four core CRPs involved here.