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Access to rail vehicles has improved greatly since the introduction of the Rail Vehicle Accessibility Regulations 1998. Since 1 January 1999, all new trains and some refurbished ones, have specially allocated wheelchair spaces which can accommodate manual and powered wheelchairs up to 700mm wide and 1200 mm long. Some trains can also accommodate certain types of scooter. Other types of scooter and very large wheelchairs usually cannot be carried. The policy on carriage of scooters varies from train company to train company, depending on the type of rolling stock they use. You can check the details at the National Rail Enquiries website: nrekb.nationalrail.co.uk/passenger_services/disabled_passengers/scooters.html.
You can find out more information about travelling with a wheelchair or scooter in the Before you travel section, which also give details of some useful publications.
If you are a wheelchair user a ramp will be provided for access to and from the train. Most ramps are kept on the station platforms, but some trains will have on-board ramps for access at stations where there is no ramp available.
If you are not a wheelchair user, but have difficulty in walking, it may still be advisable to ask for a ramp to be provided, as there may be a high step up into or down from the train and no grab rail to hold on to. Station staff will be able to assist you on the ramp.
An increasing number of services have trains with wheelchair accessible toilets. If you cannot walk far make sure you book a seat near to the toilet.
For people with sensory impairments, the RVAR has introduced requirements for new trains to be fitted with both visual and audible passenger information systems. For people with impaired hearing, new trains are required to have both internal and external destination displays, while people with visual impairments benefit from new requirements for audible information to be provided.
It is always a good idea to check before you travel what catering facilities are available, especially on longer distance journeys. Many trains have an 'at seat' trolley service where you can get sandwiches or snacks and drinks, however some only have a buffet car or no catering facilities at all.
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