Improvement 03: Visual communications on Metro trains

Progress Update

1. Metro Trains Electronic Visual Displays are now installed and the displays went live in April 2010. The displays are located in all carriages and show the route, announce the next station and alert if any changes occur to the service.

2. Team consultants are looking at ideas for accessible signs in bus stations and interchanges. Meetings planned – John Usher from Nexus is in contact with Deaflink. Nexus looking at training on signing (BSL)

3. Suggestion for electronic displays in all bus shelters looking at giving real time information and also using SMS for information.

4. Nexus are working on visual and audible systems for Deaf and Blind People.

Next Steps

Continue campaigning.
Attitude of staff on buses needs to be monitored by deaf/deaf blind. Nexus are doing disability awareness training.
Meet Commercial Director, Martin Harris of Go North East to discuss information modes, training of staff etc.
Deaf Awareness should be given to staff by deaf people. Need to lobby bus companies to achieve this.
Transport for all – this feeds back to all transport companies, will join with ITA (Integrated Transport Authority) which means direct line contact with local politicians.
Idea was proposed that Counsellors and senior staff should wear ear plugs and blind folds to experience what it feels like to be deaf or blind.
Need further discussion on Bridge Cards.
To work with other Deaf groups in the region.