Building Confidence Through “Try the Train” Trips
And identifying ways to improve accessibility
Did you know that we deliver ‘Try the Train’ trips, designed to support people who face barriers to travelling independently by rail. The sessions aim to build confidence, improve understanding of the rail network, identify ways in which accessibility can be enhanced for all passengers using the Abbey Line and showcase things to do along the line.
Working with local community groups, we recently organised three such journeys, providing participants with the opportunity to gain first-hand experience of travelling by train in a relaxed and supportive environment.
Supporting Members of Leeanna’s Wish CIC
Two trips were delivered with members of Leeanna’s Wish CIC, a community organisation tackling systemic barriers and improving access to services. They run a number of projects in and around St Albans. The members selected for the trips live with a range of challenges, including mobility issues, hidden disabilities and acquired head injuries.
For many participants, travelling by rail can feel daunting due to concerns about accessibility, navigating stations, understanding ticketing systems or managing busy environments or reliability. The supported journeys enabled participants to experience every stage of a rail journey while receiving guidance and reassurance from Abbey Line CRP representatives and London Northwestern staff.
The trips also provided valuable insight into the accessibility needs of passengers using the Abbey Line. Participants shared their experiences and highlighted both the positive aspects of travelling by train and areas where additional support or improvements could help make journeys easier and more inclusive.
Developing Independent Travel Skills
The Abbey Line CRP also partnered with West Herts College, taking a group of students with learning disabilities on a dedicated Try the Train trip.
The visit gave students the opportunity to learn about rail safety and how to confidently use public transport, alongside a behind-the-scenes experience in the driver’s cab, even sounding the horn at the end of the journey!
Learning and Improving Accessibility
These trips are an important part of Abbey Line CRP’s commitment to supporting a more welcoming and accessible railway. By working directly with people who face barriers to travel, the partnership can better understand passenger experiences and help inform future improvements and initiatives.
The Abbey Line CRP looks forward to continuing its programme of supported travel experiences, helping more people discover the benefits of rail travel and gain the confidence to travel independently across the local rail network.
If you know of a local organisation whose members face barriers to rail travel and could benefit from a supported Try the Train experience, please get in touch with us. We are always keen to work with local groups to build confidence, encourage independence and help more people discover the opportunities that rail travel can offer.
