New installations at Lincolnshire railway stations to improve journeys for those needing extra assistance
New additions have been added to railway stations in Skegness, Boston and Sleaford to improve journeys for those with disability.
East Midlands Railway (EMR) has installed the assistance boards across the Poacher Line - which runs from Nottingham to Skegness.
The accessible meeting point boards are clearly signposted to help customers quickly identify where assistance is available to them.
The company, operated by Transport UK, says its investment “will make it easier for all customers to access support and travel with confidence”.
“The clearly marked meeting points provide passengers travelling between Nottingham and Skegness with a simple and reliable location where they can meet a member of staff or request assistance before travelling,” an EMR spokesperson said. "The initiative will make it easier for customers to access support, benefiting people who use wheelchairs, have visual or hearing impairments, mobility difficulties or hidden disabilities, as well as anyone requiring additional assistance while travelling.
The new signs also improve the delivery of ‘Passenger Assist’ by providing staff with a dedicated location to meet customers who have booked assistance.
"This helps to ensure smoother boarding and alighting, reduces the risk of missed connections, and makes journeys more seamless,” the spokesperson added: “The investment forms part of EMR's ongoing commitment to creating a more accessible and inclusive railway.”
Philippa Cresswell, Customer Experience Director at East Midlands Railway, commented: "These new accessible meeting points will make it much easier for customers to find the support they need.
"Whether someone has booked Passenger Assist, has a visible or hidden disability, or simply wants some extra help, these clearly marked locations provide reassurance that assistance is close at hand.”
She added: "This investment on the Poacher Line is another step in our commitment to making our railway more accessible, inclusive and welcoming for everyone."
Customers can continue to book assistance in advance through EMR's Passenger Assist service or speak to station staff on the day they travel. The new meeting points provide an additional, easy-to-find location where help can be accessed, making journeys simpler and more reassuring for all.