UK: Great Western Railway has gained the National Autistic Society’s Autism Friendly Award for businesses which become more inclusive by providing accessible customer services, information and environments.
‘There are lots of small changes businesses can make to better support autistic people, and just a little understanding can go a long way’, said Christine Flintoft-Smith, Head of Autism Accreditation & Projects at the National Autistic Society. ‘We hope to work with as many businesses as possible to help create a society that works for autistic people.’
Autism-friendly products
GWR has created several autism-friendly products including:
- a soundbite series that allows autistic people to understand the sounds they may experience when travelling by train;
- video tours of stations to better allow people to navigate the station prior to arrival;
- sensory packs that provide coping tools to allow travel more comfortable;
- ear defenders available at some staffed stations to support passengers who experience over-stimulation or sensory overload;
- expanding its Try a Train programme which supports individuals and groups in developing their travelling confidence.
‘We are proud to be the first train operator to achieve national autism accreditation across our entire network, building on the success of our 2023 accreditation between Plymouth and Penzance’, said GWR Accessibility Mentor Coral Thomas on November 5. ‘This milestone reflects a sustained commitment to making rail travel more accessible and supportive for all.’
