Navigating the Path to Accessibility: My Journey as a Blind Commuter

As a visually impaired guide dog owner, I’ve become well-acquainted with Huddersfield, Ravensthorpe, Dewsbury, and Batley train stations in my daily travels. Through these experiences, I’ve encountered various challenges along the way.

While my blind person’s pass allows me free travel on the Metro West Yorkshire network, it doesn’t solve the issue of automated barriers at Huddersfield and Dewsbury stations. I often find myself waiting for assistance, despite knowing my way around these stations.

Although I’m confident in advocating for myself by raising my voice to catch staff’s attention, this process can be both frustrating and disheartening. It serves as a reminder that even seemingly simple tasks can become obstacles when public spaces aren’t designed with accessibility in mind.

I had the opportunity to participate in Northern Trains and TransPennine Express’s trial focused on improving travel experiences for blind individuals. Using the M card took some adjustment, but successfully passing through a barrier without assistance was empowering.

While this initiative is a promising step forward, it’s crucial that we continue working towards a more inclusive and accessible public transportation system.

As a visually impaired woman adept at managing technology and various tools independently, I look forward to a time when navigating public transit becomes an effortless part of daily life.