Publicly owned train operators leading the way on accessibility
Following publication of the government’s Accessibility Roadmap last week, train operators in public ownership are highlighting how they are already turning that vision into reality. The Accessibility Roadmap outlines a long-term vision for a more accessible railway and was published alongside the Railways Bill which sets out plans to overhaul Britain’s rail network through the creation of Great British Railways (GBR). Throughout 2025, the seven train operators now in public ownership have delivered a wide range of accessibility improvements to ensure that rail travel works for everyone. Accessibility improvements across the network in 2025 include: Andrew McClements, customer experience and transformation director at TransPennine Express, said: “Everyone, everywhere deserves a railway that works for them. Making our network truly accessible is the collective mission of all train operators in public ownership. “The government’s Accessibility Roadmap rightly highlights many of the changes, like improving the digital journey for people with visual impairments and driving key infrastructure upgrades, that are being trailblazed through common ownership. A lot has been done, but we know we can do better. “Together, publicly owned operators will collaborate and innovate to chart the path outlined in the Government’s roadmap, as we continue the journey to Great British Railways.” As the Railways Bill moves forward and Great British Railways takes shape, these improvements show what can be achieved when accessibility is placed at the heart of rail reform. https://www.tpexpress.co.uk
Support dog Bailey is veteran Stephen’s protector
Stephen Baker spent nine years protecting Queen and country, even guarding Buckingham Palace as a bearskin and red tunic-clad Coldstream Guard for three of them. But after sustaining multiple injuries while serving, he later became plagued with health issues, needing a support dog. Stephen, 63, has also suffered two major strokes and a number of mini strokes and relied heavily on his wife Angela, who says he is lucky to be alive and couldn’t be left alone. But since having his pet dog, Bailey, trained by the national Support Dogs charity, for the first time in 40 years, Stephen is starting to regain his independence – and the pooch could potentially save his life. Remarkable Labrador Retriever Bailey has been trained to give an alert bark if Stephen falls or needs help – a vital skill as a mini stroke could be a pre-cursor to a major stroke, which can prove serious or fatal. Dad-of-five Stephen, who lives in Northumberland, said: “Bailey is my best friend. “It’s not just about giving myself confidence and reassurance both at home and while out and about, my whole family feel a lot more relaxed knowing Bailey is helping to keep me safe and looking after me. “Now I don’t have to worry about being left on my own.” Bailey can also pick up Stephen’s walking stick, open doors for him and helps out by picking up items like clothes and slippers. This has not only benefitted Stephen hugely, but it has also given Angela more energy to help her husband, as she also cares for one of her daughters. Stephen said he had been left in “embarrassing situations”, including a time when he had been in a pub and dropped his walking stick and couldn’t reach it and no one would help him. But now he doesn’t have to worry about being left feeling so vulnerable, as Bailey will help – and seeing Bailey in his blue Support Dogs jacket makes people aware of Stephen’s disability. Angela said: “Bailey is marvellous – he has changed Stephen’s life and mine too.” Stephen signed up for the Army aged just 17 in 1979 and served around the world. However, his military career was cut short when he was injured in action and was discharged from service. Years later, Stephen deteriorated, having problems walking and suffering back and hip problems and he was hospitalised. He was later diagnosed with osteoarthritis, as well as sleep apnoea and breathing difficulties. His condition worsens over the winter period and in the past two years he had suffered two severe strokes. “He is lucky to be here,” said Angela. “He got through the strokes but has mini strokes and he stands and can’t call for help and his face drops. He is high risk and if I’m in another room I can’t see that happening. “But Bailey is trained to respond to a hand signal, if Stephen can move his hand, and spots this and will do a high-pitched bark.” Although, thankfully, Stephen hasn’t experienced a mini stroke since Bailey’s arrival, the family ensure Bailey’s training is up to speed by Angela falling on the floor and practising what Bailey has been taught by Support Dogs. “It’s fantastic,” added Angela. “It means I’m not on high alert having to think ‘does Stephen need me now?’ Whereas previously I was doing everything for Stephen – I was living his life and I was his body. “I’m no longer his body – Bailey is my helper and it’s shared between me and Bailey. I can safely leave Bailey with him. It’s given Stephen his independence and also means more time for us.” Stephen added: “Support Dogs is fantastic. I never hesitate to recommend the charity to others.” To find out more about the incredible work of Support Dogs, which also trains and provides autism assistance and epilepsy seizure alert dogs, please visit www.supportdogs.org.uk or call 0114 2617800.
Evo PT: Self-Balancing All-Terrain Mobility Device
Author: EVO Mobility This product announcement introduces the Evo PT, a UK-manufactured self-balancing personal transporter that offers genuine advantages for people with mobility limitations, including seniors and those with disabilities. Unlike conventional electric wheelchairs, this two-wheeled device uses an Auto Safety Gyro System that maintains balance automatically while users control movement through body weight shifts and either a joystick or steer bar for turning. The device’s all-terrain capability – handling indoor surfaces, outdoor paths, beaches, and nature trails – addresses a significant gap in mobility solutions for individuals who want to venture beyond smooth, flat surfaces. At a current price of £12,640 (with VAT exemption available), the Evo PT presents a mid-range option in the assistive mobility market, featuring practical specifications including a 20-38 km range, on-the-spot turning capability, and the ability to handle 20% inclines and modest obstacles. For those exploring alternatives to traditional wheelchairs or mobility scooters, particularly individuals seeking greater versatility in outdoor environments, this British-designed product represents an interesting option worth investigating through demonstration bookings – Disabled World (DW). “We created the Evo PT to give people more than just mobility – we wanted to deliver independence and a sense of empowerment,” said a spokesperson from Evo Mobility. “With cutting-edge self-balancing technology, users can move safely and freely across various terrains.” The Evo PT uses a unique Auto Safety Gyro System, an independent safety mechanism that always ensures balance and security. Forward and backward motion is controlled by shifting body weight, while a joystick or the steer bar version allows smooth left and right turns. With this intuitive system, users are always in full control, without the need to manually balance. Accessibility Without Compromise Priced affordably at £12,640 the Evo PT offers value without sacrificing quality. VAT exemption is available with a valid certificate; the company can help with this process. This image shows the Evo PT Self-Balancing Mobility Device, a modern, futuristic-looking electric wheelchair with two large wheels, resembling a Segway-style design. It has a sleek white frame with a black cushioned seat and backrest, as well as armrests on both sides. A single curved detachable handlebar extends from the front for steering or support, and there’s a footrest platform below the seat. The Evo PT enters a mobility market where innovation has often lagged behind user needs, particularly for those seeking adventure beyond paved surfaces. While self-balancing technology has proven itself in consumer products, its application to accessibility devices remains relatively uncommon, making this UK-manufactured transporter noteworthy in its approach to solving real-world mobility challenges. The device’s ability to handle beaches, trails, and uneven terrain could meaningfully expand recreational opportunities for users who have felt limited by conventional wheeled mobility aids. However, potential buyers should thoroughly test the device on terrain types relevant to their lifestyle, verify its performance in various weather conditions, and carefully consider the learning curve associated with gyroscopic controls. As with any significant mobility purchase, hands-on demonstration and professional assessment of individual needs remain essential steps before committing to this innovative but relatively untested platform in the accessibility market – Tel: 01525 376916 Email: propelenergygroup@outlook.com Website: https://www.myevomobility.com
New rules on disability and carers benefits
Disabled people and carers who move to Scotland from other parts of the UK must take action if they want to continue receiving financial support. The Scottish Government has introduced replacements for Personal Independence Payment, DLA for children and Carer’s Allowance. From November 6, anyone getting one of these benefits who moves to Scotland will need to apply for the replacement benefits from Social Security Scotland. To minimise payment disruptions, applications for the replacement benefits – Adult Disability Payment, Child Disability Payment and Carer Support Payment – should be made as soon as possible after the move. Before applying to Social Security Scotland, people must tell the Department for Work and Pensions or Department of Communities in Northern Ireland about their move. Social Security Scotland’s deputy director Karyn Dunning said: “It’s vital disabled people and carers who move to Scotland take action to ensure they continue to get the financial support they are entitled to. “We know applying for benefits can feel daunting, especially alongside moving to a new country, but there is an in-depth guide available on mygov.scot. “Our staff are also here to answer questions and help people apply. We can provide help over the phone, through webchat or through a face-to-face appointment with one of our community-based advisors. “I urge people not to put off applying. The Scottish approach to benefits is very different from that of the DWP. For example, we do not use private sector assessors to make decisions. “Our system is built on the principles of dignity, fairness and respect, and we want disabled people and carers to get every penny they’re entitled to.” For more information visit mygov.scot/moving-to-scotland or call Social Security Scotland on 0800 182 2222.
‘One Stop Shop’ for people with disabilities and their carers
Long-standing Derby social care providers have joined forces to create a comprehensive ‘One Stop Shop’ helping thousands of people with disabilities to live independently. ‘The Disability Syndicate’ brings together Blue Sky Brokers, DD Payroll Services and the Kate Garraway-backed Blue Sky Social Care Card under one roof for the first time. The new Pride Park based organisation means that people with disabilities – and their carers – can access at the same time the comprehensive range of services offered by all three organisations. These services include managing payroll for those employing carers in their homes; managing pre-paid cards for direct payments; recruiting a personal assistant (PA) and support for those receiving Personal Health Budgets (PHB). Latest figures estimate that there are around 2.5million paid carers in the UK, and a far higher number – just under six million – who are unpaid carers. Around a quarter of the population – some 16million people – are living with a disability in the UK. The Disability Syndicate managing director Raj Johal said: “I’m delighted to be launching The Disability Syndicate which draws under one organisation the huge number of services that have been provided by these brilliant providers. “Since the founding of our parent company, Disability Direct, back in 1993, we have been passionate about helping people living in challenging circumstances to live independent, dignified lives and for carers to get the support they need in a profession that often feels invisible to the wider public. “It makes perfect sense for Blue Sky Brokers, DD Payroll Services and Blue Sky Social Care Card to be operating from the same base. We’re very happy to be launching our new Disability Syndicate which will enable us to provide a powerful One Stop Shop helping thousands of people around the UK every day.” Founded more than 15 years ago, Blue Sky Brokers works with local authorities such as Derbyshire, Bedford, Salford and Lambeth to deliver high quality support services for direct payments – these are benefits payments paid straight to people requiring the assistance of carers or personal assistants to allow them to live independently in the community. Blue Sky Brokers provides a wide range of support for people employing carers including conducting DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks, reference verification, advice on employment law, plus contracts and job descriptions. The organisation also runs a PA Hub helping people recruit personal assistants, as well as free training for employers receiving a direct payment or Personal Health Budget. There is also a wide range of support for paid and unpaid carers including free talking therapies, fortnightly carers’ clinics, welfare rights advice, wellbeing initiatives, signposting to local services and training. DD Payroll provides financial services including managing accounts, HMRC, wages and pensions, and managing a pre-paid card to which care-related payments are added for ease of use. There is also an online portal allowing people to access payslips, audit information and reports. Launched at a glittering event in London hosted by Derby North MP Catherine Atkinson with the help of TV presenter Kate Garraway, the Blue Sky Social Care Card is the first UK-wide ID and discount card for both paid and unpaid carers. The card is fully verified and vetted and can be carried by carers for ID purposes but also to provide perks and discounts in the High Street, in recognition of their valuable role in society. There are now around 10,000 people in the UK who have a Blue Sky Social Care Card. The Disability Syndicate gives all profits to its parent charity, Disability Direct. Raj said: “Our aim with The Disability Syndicate is to provide the best service we can to the huge number of people in the UK who are living with a disability, as well as the carers who support them. “When you have a disability you often find yourself in the position of being an employer and inviting a personal assistant into your home. That brings with it a wealth of responsibility and trust and we are passionate about making that process as easy as we can for both the person needing care and the carer providing it. Many people in the UK do not realise they are caregivers and with our suite of services we aim to raise awareness and help give what practical support we can.”
Santander Work Cafés introduce ‘accessibility scores’
Santander has partnered with Snowball, the mobile app often described as “TripAdvisor for the disabled community,” to introduce accessibility scores at its popular high-street Work Cafés. Similar to a food hygiene rating, these scores aim to promote transparency and provide greater support for disabled customers. The initial rollout covers Santander Work Cafés in Leeds and Milton Keynes, along with three London locations – Triton Square, Cheapside, and Kensington High Street – all of which have been individually assessed by Snowball’s team. Each café, which offers free co-working spaces, meeting rooms, and Wi-Fi, was evaluated for accessibility features including wheelchair access, as well as design considerations for individuals with dyslexia, neurodivergent conditions, and dementia. All five cafés have achieved the top accessibility rating of five out of five, a score recognised by the disabled community and now prominently displayed within each location. Created by disabled activist and wheelchair user Simon Sansome, Snowball is a mobile app dedicated to improving accessibility across the UK. With over 100,000 user reviews, it features a built-in satnav for navigating accessible venues and a national disability rating system, now adopted by Santander’s Work Cafés. The platform helps businesses enhance accessibility while offering membership options for those wishing to be rated and listed. Following a successful trial, Santander plans to expand the accessibility rating scheme to additional Work Cafés in London and other cities, as well as to its contact centres. Simon Sansome commented: “I’m delighted Santander has embraced our disability rating initiative. Disabled individuals make up a significant portion of the UK workforce, yet their needs are often overlooked in the design of offices, co-working spaces, and conference facilities. Santander has long been on my radar as a business that prioritises accessibility. By partnering with us, they’re making a real difference – helping disabled customers and colleagues enjoy their exceptional business support services, and, of course, their fantastic coffee.” The Snowball app is available for free on Apple and Android.
Turning Passion into Progress ScottishPower Foundation Awards
From revolutionising Deaf healthcare to transforming dementia care with music, the ScottishPower Foundation Awards have celebrated six inspiring charities making waves across the country. At a ceremony honouring outstanding impact across four categories, the winners of each award received £10,000 for their charities to further their essential efforts, while the runners-up were awarded £5,000 each. The prestigious Charity Champion Award was presented to Robin Ash, a passionate advocate and educator at Deaf-led charity SignHealth, for his groundbreaking work improving healthcare access for the Deaf community. Drawing on lived experience, Robin travels across England and Wales delivering British Sign Language (BSL) workshops that empower Deaf people to understand their rights under the Accessible Information Standard (AIS) and advocate for themselves in medical settings. His sessions also support healthcare professionals in meeting AIS requirements – a vital step, given that only 35% currently receive regular training. SignHealth’s research reveals that 81% of Deaf patients have attended appointments where their communication needs weren’t met. Thanks to Robin’s workshops, many professionals now routinely ask about communication needs and ensure BSL interpreters are booked in advance. Known for his warmth, patience and tireless commitment, Robin often works evenings and weekends to reach more communities. His workshops are fully booked for the next year – a testament to their impact. Judges praised Robin for building change from the ground up and helping create a more inclusive health service Robin Ash, Community Engagement Officer at SignHealth said, “I’m honoured to have my work recognised by the ScottishPower Foundation. Campaigning for fair and equal healthcare access for Deaf people has been my lifelong passion. This prize money will help our fantastic team here at SignHealth to reach even more people within the Deaf community, delivering life-saving workshops across the country.” The Community Engagement Award went to Playlist for Life, which is transforming dementia care through the power of personally meaningful music. In 2024, its campaigns – including National Playlist Day, backed by Sir Alex Ferguson – reached over 5 million people, encouraging them to reflect on the music that shaped their lives. Supporting over 60,000 families through 2,500 Help Point partners, Playlist for Life has seen remarkable outcomes, including an 80% reduction in medication for some patients in Fife. Its gold-standard engagement brings together communities, professionals and public figures to show that music is both joyful and life-saving. Michael Timmons, Executive Director at Playlist for Life, said, “It’s fantastic to be to be recognised by the ScottishPower Foundation for our work supporting communities across Scotland and the UK with free resources, advice and support. This award is shared with everyone living with dementia, their families, carers and all who’ve helped Playlist for Life bring the soundtrack back into people’s lives. The additional funding will help us reach even more people nationwide. Our heartfelt thanks to the ScottishPower Foundation for championing the power of playlists.” The Education Award was presented to The Oswin Project, which is transforming lives through education, training and employment for prisoners and ex-offenders. From catering and horticulture to heritage skills and bicycle engineering, its tailored programmes help individuals rebuild confidence, reconnect with families and reintegrate into society. Fiona Sample MBE, Founder and CEO at The Oswin Project, said, “This award from the ScottishPower Foundation will provide us with additional funding to help us continue reducing reoffending through our transformational mentoring and education, giving hope to those once considered hopeless. “By tailoring our support to each individual, we empower them to rebuild self-esteem, provide for their families and contribute positively to society. Together we can create safer communities, fewer victims of crime and a future where no one is defined solely by their past.” Finally, the Innovation Award went to the Hebridean Whale & Dolphin Trust for its floating classroom, which brings marine science to life for children in remote coastal communities. Aboard the ‘Silurian’, the organisations’ research vessel, young learners hoist sails, spot wildlife, listen to porpoise clicks and connect their experiences to real-world science and sustainability. Sadie Gorvett, Education and Sightings Officer, said, “This recognition is so important to us as it celebrates our floating classroom and the communities that make it possible by sparking passion and interest in the local environment and encouraging conversations about the actions that we can all take to help protect it. “With no comparable project in the country it has become a unique and highly sought after experience. With this additional support from the ScottishPower Foundation we’ll inspire young ocean ambassadors and expand education and research to protect Scotland’s west coast marine wildlife together.” Melanie Hill, Executive Officer and Trustee at the ScottishPower Foundation, said, “At the ScottishPower Foundation, we believe in the power of people to change lives – and this year’s Award winners have done just that. Their passion, resilience and creativity are nothing short of inspiring. “Stories like Robin’s are the reason we do this. Every winner is a true champion, tackling vital challenges. We’re incredibly proud to support these changemakers who are lighting up communities, breaking down barriers and building a brighter future for all. It’s a privilege to stand beside them and help their impact grow.” Further details on the winners and runners-up are available on the ScottishPower Foundation website: scottishpowerfoundation.com.
Purple Tuesday 2025
Businesses and organisations across the UK are hosting a series of events on Tuesday 4th November, to celebrate Purple Tuesday, the global initiative to improve the customer experience for disabled people and their families. There are 16 million disabled people in the UK (24% of the population or one in five of us), whilst 80% have a disabled friend or relative, so improved accessibility is good for business and should matter to everyone. Now in its eighth-year, Purple Tuesday sees businesses, community groups and other organisations across the UK, pulling out all the stops to raise awareness of the importance of accessibility. Activity will include purple-themed events, awareness sessions with guest speakers, in-house training, panel discussions and interactive workshops – an array of engaging initiatives accessible for all. In the last year alone, Purple Tuesday has supported organisations to deliver 8,000 new accessibility changes to improve the customer experience for disabled people and their families. A record 8,500 organisations across 13 countries are taking part in this year’s Purple Tuesday, with national events taking place in the UK, Jersey, Germany, the UAE, Oman Hong Kong, Malaysia, Pakistan and the USA. Official celebrations will kick off in London on Tuesday 4th November, where Purple Tuesday partners and disabled ambassadors will come together to see the famous Piccadilly lights turn purple and watch the premiere of the new Purple Tuesday Production. Later on in the day, there will a groundbreaking collaboration between Purple Tuesday, drone art curators Lumina, and Ambassador and author Shani Dhanda, hosted by Westfield shopping centre. This first-of-its-kind light show will combine breathtaking aerial artistry, to bring to life the award-winning story that celebrates the beauty of inclusion “The No Horn Unicorn”. The design is low-noise and sensory-considerate, making it perfect for neurodiverse and disabled audiences. Mike Adams OBE, Executive Chair of Purple Group and Founder of Purple Tuesday, said: “As we celebrate the eighth year of Purple Tuesday, it’s fantastic to see the continued commitment shown by our participants, to keep working towards a world where accessibility is everywhere, for everyone. So often the focus of accessibility campaigning is to highlight the places that are getting it wrong. I believe we should also celebrate the good – those businesses that are making a positive difference to the lives of disabled people every day. Using our #ThinkAccessibility theme, I hope that by showcasing good practice, we will inspire others who may be falling short, to begin their own accessibility journey this year.” Jamie Kerruish, Chief Healthcare Officer for Boots, and Executive sponsor for the Boots Disability Alliance Business Resource Group, said:“At Boots, we have proudly supported Purple Tuesday for five years and remain committed to creating a more inclusive shopping environment for disabled customers. This year, we are offering all our store colleagues the opportunity to learn and understand some key phrases in British Sign Language so they can continue to welcome and support some of our deaf and hard of hearing customers. I encourage other organisations to join the Purple Tuesday movement to ensure that the joy of shopping is accessible for all.” Purple Tuesday connects disabled people with businesses – from global giants to micro enterprises – and is dedicated to promoting a more accessible and inclusive world by highlighting the value and contributions of people with disabilities as consumers, employees, and community members. It is an open invitation to the disability and business communities to shift perceptions and celebrate inclusion and accessibility in all forms. Visit https://purpletuesday.co for more information. #PurpleTuesday or #ThinkAccessibility
Accessibility app Snowball impresses
Simon Sansome, the creator of Snowball, a mobile app that describes itself as ‘the Trip Advisor for the disabled community’, secured backing from all five moguls on the hit BBC show, Dragons’ Den. The show that aired 30th October, showed wheelchair user, Simon, dazzle the full panel of multimillionaire investors with his mobile app. Snowball allows people with a full range of disabilities, including hidden disabilities, to discover accessible services and locations throughout the UK – from parking and petrol stations, to health and hospitality. Leicestershire-based Simon, who experienced a life-changing injury in 2014, leaving him paralysed from the waist down, came up with the idea for the mobile app, which features user-generated content and reviews, after a Facebook page he created to raise awareness of accessible spots reached an audience of over 30m people. He went on to create the award-winning Snowball app for IoS and Android users, which was an instant hit. Peter Jones proposed the £80k investment was split equally among the five Dragons, who all rushed to secure a stake in Simon’s business, each offering £16k for a 5% share. Simon commented on the result: “When I received a clean sweep of all five Dragons, I was in shock. After eight years of hard work, it’s fair to say this was a very emotional moment for me. “The atmosphere in the studio was electric. As I shared my story and the journey behind Snowball, I could see the panel becoming more and more engaged. When Peter made an offer and said he was also willing to share with the other Dragons, I knew something special was happening. To have all five of them eager to be part of the business was surreal – it’s every entrepreneur’s dream, and I’ll never forget that moment.” Third-party investment has been key in bringing Simon’s game-changing app to market, so when the opportunity to appear on the hit show came up, he jumped at the chance to secure both financial and strategic input from the A-list entrepreneurs. Watch Simon face the business moguls on iPlayer. https://company.snowball.community