MP asks transport operators to consider sight loss community

Gordon MP Richard Thomson has written to the five major public transport operators to encourage them to consider the Sight Loss Community when lockdown measures are eased.

Letters have been sent to the leaders of Stagecoach, First Bus, Scotrail, LNER and the Caledonian Sleeper urging them to make public transport as friendly and accessible as possible for the Sight Loss community while social distancing is still observed.

Mr Thomson is urging operators to make public transport as easy as possible to use while social distancing continues, particularly during the phased easing of lockdown regulations.

In his letters, he urges local public transport bosses to review the Guide Dogs charity online advice and give assurances they will consider the special requirements of the blind and partially sighted.

Mr Thomson who is the SNP's Westminster Spokesperson on Business and Industry, said: “As we slowly see the lockdown restrictions eased, things will be slowly returning to normal although measures such as social distancing will remain.

"Returning to work and regular daily life will also be part of this, and that includes travel on public transport for many people.

“For those living with some degree of sight loss or blindness, the social distancing measures pose new challenges particularly while travelling.

"I implore the local public transport operators to support those with sight loss as part of their plans to maintain a safe environment for staff and customers for the months ahead.”

The Guide Dogs advice is available here: www.guidedogs.org.uk/about-us/what-we-do/research/Policy-and-guidance-for-businesses

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