New screens at station will help deaf passengers
GLASGOW Central is the first station in the UK to introduce a major new change.
The busy station has become the first to install information screens with British Sign Language ( BSL), alongside Edinburgh Waverley.
BSL will appear on the main boards and sub- boards as part of a plan to make the railway more accessible for deaf passengers.
Network Rail teamed up with the British Deaf Association ( BDA) Scotland, which offered its insight and guidance throughout the project.
The latest information on trains coming from Network Rail’s control room will be converted to BSL on the displays in real time.
While the boards currently only show train information, they will soon be able to show emergency
and security messages and information that could impact journeys.
Graham Smith, regional telecoms asset and performance manager at Network Rail, said: “We value the positive impact that having BSL displayed on our main and sub- boards can have for our deaf passengers.
“We hope this will not only help in our communication efforts for passengers with hearing difficulties but will provide those customers with a better experience on Scotland’s Railway.
“We’ve heard that, as a result of the work we’re doing in Scotland, there are five other major stations who now want to follow our lead, so I’m really proud to see Scotland’s Railway blazing this trail.”
Avril Hepner, BSL Scotland manager for BDA Scotland, said: “There are a number of challenges that we face when travelling by train.
“It’s very easy to end up on the wrong platform or on the wrong train, especially when there are platform changes or delays, and we can’t hear the live announcements.
“These digital BSL information boards will benefit deaf travellers greatly. They’ll improve accessibility and independence but will also give confidence to passengers that they are up to date with travel information and able to get to the right train at the right time.
“Having this vital information in BSL brings hope that many more BSL users have the confidence to travel independently by train.”
Work to install the screens was carried out in partnership with contractors AmcoGiffen, JNP Group and LB Foster.
Iain Mackay, telecoms contracts manager at AmcoGiffen, said: “AmcoGiffen is proud to be part of this ground- breaking project helping to create an inclusive environment for all passengers.
“We worked closely with Network Rail’s team, station managers and key supply chain partners to commission and install these BSL displays, that not only enhance accessibility but will also foster a sense of belonging, helping to make all passengers feel welcome and accommodated on Scotland’s Railway.”