A new initiative is looking to help disabled people feel more confident when using public transport.

Oxfordshire Community Rail Partnership (OxCRP) is leading the ‘Travelling with Confidence’ programme, funded by a grant from the Mobility Foundation, says the Oxford Mail.

The initiative is a response to research by Scope which found 54 per cent of disabled people often or always feel anxious using public transport, and 30 per cent say difficulties with public transport reduce their mobility.

The initiative, which will begin later this year, will be coordinated by Community Rail Network, a national not-for-profit that supports communities to get involved with local railways and stations.

Research shows more than half of disabled people often or always feel anxious using public transport will be looking to ensure lasting change with the support of four key delivery partners, namely, GO Community Rail Partnership, Community Rail Lancashire, Severnside Community Rail Partnership, and Southeast Communities Rail Partnership.

These community rail partnerships will be working with local inclusion and disability partners, aiming to engage 1,500 people with diverse needs over two years.

The project will support travel confidence and provide enriching rail experiences that unlock future opportunities, OxCRP said.

OxCRP, its local partners, and Community Rail Network said they will ensure the experiences of disabled people remain at the forefront and will share insights to help shape a more inclusive railway.

Hannah McDonnell, executive director of OxCRP, said: “We are delighted to be part of this important initiative that puts disabled people’s experiences at the heart of making travel more accessible.”

Pic: Oxford Community Rail Partnership