Passengers making a stand with new badges
PEOPLE who find it hard to stand on public transport can now pick up a free badge to boost their chances of getting a seat.
The ‘Please Offer me a Seat’ badge is for passengers with disabilities, injuries or hidden conditions.
Launched by Transport for Greater Manchester, it will let other passengers know you need a seat on public transport.
The scheme, say transport bosses, will be run on ‘trust and mutual co-operation.’
To that end, they say they have made the application process ‘quick and simple,’ with no need for medical details or supporting evidence.
TfGM will be supporting Please Offer me a Seat with a social media and marketing campaign so that passengers will be aware of the scheme and know to offer their seats to people with a badge.
Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham said a successful transport system needed to be accessible to all.
He added: “If someone is put off using public transport because they can’t stand for extended periods or are worried about not getting a seat then it can be a real barrier to getting to the jobs, shops and other essential services across our city-region. “This system makes it clearer to everyone, so people who need a seat feel more confident asking, and people sitting feel less awkward offering.” Brenda Warrington from AgeFriendly Greater Manchester and Equalities said not all disabilities and conditions were visible an those people should apply for a badge, adding: “If you’re on public transport and you see someone with a badge standing, please offer them your seat. Let’s all do our bit to make our journeys better.” The scheme has been welcomed by Breakthrough UK, an organisation for disabled people, said the scheme would raise awareness that many people have hidden impairment. She said the optional element was important as it allowed people to choose whether or not they want to share disclose their condition. For more information or to apply for an Please Offer me a Seat badge go to: www.tfgm.com/seat