Blind rail passenger helps write train audio guide

Dave Smith sits on Thameslink's Accessibility Advisory Panel

A blind passenger has helped a rail company write an audio guide to its trains.

Dave Smith, from Redhill, Surrey, sits on Thameslink's Accessibility Advisory Panel to help it improve services for disabled people.

The guide, which is available on the train company's website, is aimed at helping people with disabilities understand the train layout before they travel.

Mr Smith said rail travel for blind or partially-sighted people could be "incredibly daunting" and the guide would "help to reduce any anxieties".

The audio guide is for all Thameslink Class 700 trains.

It describes where to find a toilet on a train, as well as its layout, and where and how to contact the driver in an emergency.

It also includes details on accessible carriages, wheelchair spaces and level boarding at stations.

Mr Smith said: "When you can’t see, it’s difficult to understand your environment and what’s around you."

The audio guide is for all Thameslink Class 700 trains

Antony Merlyn, Thameslink's accessibility engagement manager, who wrote the guide with Mr Smith, said: “Dave has a unique insight into the challenges for blind or partially-sighted people travelling by train.

"We hope this audio guide gives people the added confidence to travel with us and regain their independence.”

Govia Thameslink Railway said audio guides will be created for a further three train types as well as at six stations - Eastbourne, Brighton, Sutton, Blackfriars, Stevenage and Luton Airport Parkway.

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