New app aims to improve train journeys for blind and partially sighted
It's being rolled out by Southern at stations across Sussex
Last updated 17th Oct 2024
An free-to-use app which enhances accessibility for blind and partially-sighted train passengers is being rolled out across Sussex following a successful trial.
Aira Explorer allows customers to place a video call with a trained advisor who looks through the customer's smartphone camera to guide them around the station on speakerphone.
The app was first trialled at 12 stations across Govia Thameslink Railway's (GTR) network, including at Brighton, Chichester, Eastbourne and Haywards Heath, as part of a trial spearheaded by blind and partially sighted volunteers from the regions Sight Loss Councils and national charity Thomas Pocklington Trust.
The operator, which runs Southern, Thameslink and Gatwick Express services, is now introducing the service out at 236 of the stations it manages from today (Thursday 17th), including at Bognor Regis, Horsham, Crawley, Lewes and Hove.
Govia Thameslink Railway accessibility lead Carl Martin said:
"We want everyone to be able to use our services, regardless of their disability or need for assistance.
"This app helps blind and partially sighted people travel independently, whether that’s to locate a member of staff for assistance when they first arrive at the station or to simply find the ticket office or grab a coffee.
"Having successfully trialled this, we’re now making it freely available to use at all our managed stations.
"We’re really grateful to Sight Loss Councils and Thomas Pocklington Trust for helping us introduce this."
Anyone with the app downloaded to their phone will be prompted with a message on approaching the station that they can use it for free and without the usual five-minute limit.
The passenger then simply taps a button to connect with an agent who looks through their camera and guides them on speakerphone.
Dave Smith, Sight Loss Council Engagement Manager for Thomas Pocklington Trust, said:
"It’s great that GTR have made the decision to roll out Aira Explorer at all their stations. It is important that everyone has access to travel on the train network and this includes blind and partially sighted people.
"Having Aira Explorer available could be enough to give someone the confidence to take the train knowing that they can arrive at a station and use Aira to support them through the station and to a member of staff.
"Furthermore, the app can be used to navigate someone to a coffee or retail shop, the toilet or out to the bus stop for an onward journey thus making the whole experience more equal to sighted passengers".