Free rail travel for the blind is a ‘great win’

Sight Scotland, and its sister charity Sight Scotland Veterans, are celebrating a Fair Rail Campaign victory after Transport Scotland announced free rail travel for companions of blind and partially sighted people.

In its recently published Fair Fares Review, Transport Scotland says it plans to launch a pilot project to extend free rail travel for companions of Blind Persons Concessionary Travel cardholders.

This policy change will have a profound impact on the lives of visually impaired individuals across Scotland, many of whom depend on public transport for mobility and independence.

Craig Spalding, chief executive of Sight Scotland and Sight Scotland Veterans, told the Express: “We are delighted the Scottish Government has announced a pilot project which will see free rail travel for blind and partially sighted people and their companions.

“After more than two years of campaigning, this is a great win for our Fair Rail campaign and another step towards accessible rail travel for all.

“Through our Fair Rail Campaign, we have been able to amplify the voices of visually impaired individuals and highlight the barriers they face whilst travelling.

“For most people living with a visual impairment, public transport is the only means they have to make journeys around the country.

“Unfortunately for many, travelling without a companion is just not an option, and the costs to pay fares is too much.

“This news will be transformative, both in terms of inclusivity and affordability, and we would like to commend Transport Scotland for actively listening to a segment of society that is regrettably overlooked far too often.”

Joe Tottenham, a 92-year-old army veteran, who lost his sight due to macular degeneration, comments:“This is a great piece of news and I’m so proud to be part of the Fair Rail campaign led by Sight Scotland and Sight Scotland Veterans who have campaigned tirelessly on this issue.

“Knowing no matter where I’m going in Scotland that my companion can travel with me at no extra cost will change my life.

“As a blind person, having someone to help me get on and off the train is vital – I’d be lost without them.

“I hope all Blind Persons ConcessionaryTravel cardholders will take full advantage of the pilot scheme.”