Concerns have been raised by the Welsh equalities commission over the changes to rail services that could significantly impact disabled and vulnerable travellers. The Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has responded to a letter signed by several MPs and peers highlighting the negative effects of ticket office closures and the expansion of driver-only operation (DOO) services on some passengers.
The commission stated that public transportation provides an essential and often the only means of getting to work or school for many individuals and is a critical gateway to opportunity and an important aspect of the government’s levelling up strategies. Thus, the commission shares the concerns of the MPs and peers that the changes to rail services are making travel by train more inaccessible.
The EHRC has received numerous reports about changes in staffing arrangements at stations and on trains and allegations that operators are unable to provide reasonable adjustments for disabled travelers, as required by the Equality Act 2010. This includes rail services that are under contractual obligation via a National Rail contract with the Secretary of State for Transport.
Mick Lynch, the general secretary of the Rail, Maritime and Transport (RMT) union, welcomed the comments from the EHRC and stated that accessibility is a key component of railways and vulnerable groups, such as the disabled, must be given priority by ministers when making changes to the network. The RMT is committed to advocating for disabled passengers and ensuring good terms and conditions for its members.
The EHRC added that it has various regulatory tools at its disposal to respond to the concerns raised. The commission has written to senior officials at the Department for Transport and the chief executive of the Office of Rail and Road to remind them of their responsibilities under the public sector equality duty. This includes considering the equality implications of decisions, monitoring the impact, and taking action to ensure that rail services are accessible to everyone. The EHRC has warned that it will not hesitate to use its enforcement powers if necessary.
In conclusion, the Equality and Human Rights Commission has expressed its concerns over the changes to rail services and their negative impact on disabled and vulnerable travelers. The commission has reminded the Department for Transport and the Office of Rail and Road of their responsibilities under the public sector equality duty and has warned that it will use its regulatory tools, including its enforcement powers, if necessary.
The EHRC has received numerous reports about changes in staffing arrangements at stations and on trains