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With many operators still unaware of the latest changes to the Passenger Rights legislation, Claire Walters, CEO of Bus Users UK, argues now is the time to act on accessibility

It’s been over a year now since changes were made to the Passenger Rights legislation, ending the exemptions on disability awareness and assistance training. Yet these changes have still not fully permeated the training programmes used by operators, with many believing it relates only to CPC training (usually only given to drivers) and is just about awareness training. This is not the case, and fines for failing to meet the requirements are substantial. It’s also not the case that this legislation will disappear if and when we leave the EU – it’s UK law now.

Bus Users UK is trying to help the industry get its house in order before any operator is subject to a legal challenge; after all, making buses and coaches safe, accessible and attractive to passengers is a shared ambition. We have posted guidance notes on our website (bususers.org/publications) on what Passenger Rights legislation means for all kinds of operators, including those who don’t do long or cross-border journeys. […]

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