Survey: quarter of disabled travellers abused on trains
One in four disabled rail passengers has suffered a hate crime or abuse, according to new research published today by the TUC’s Action for Rail campaign.
The poll – of 1,031 disabled people – reveals that (PDF) over a quarter (27%) of disabled rail users have been targeted while at stations or on trains.
Over two-fifths of wheelchair users (43%) and travellers with visual impairments (41%) also reported abuses.
The survey, by pollsters Survation, comes as train operating companies prepare to embark upon a major programme of cuts that Action for Rail fears could see the loss of 7,000 train guards and 7,000 station staff over the next six years.
These plans are deeply unpopular with disabled rail users, the poll reveals. Four-fifths (81%) say reducing staff numbers will make train travel more difficult for them, with one in three (34%) warning the cuts will deter them from making journeys, and in some cases make rail travel impossible.
Action for Rail says the findings show why the government should rethink its plans for the railways, which give train companies until 2019 to reduce staffing costs by £200million and close ticket offices at 650 stations.
Action for Rail says the cuts make a mockery of the government’s commitment to making the railways more accessible to disabled and elderly people and would put the safety of all commuters at risk.
Disabled campaigners will today meet MPs in parliament at 1.30pm to raise their concerns about the cuts and will hold protests against the proposals at 4.30pm outside London’s Kings Cross Station