An identity card for young disabled people is being trialled in Gwynedd to assist them in using public transport.
The new ‘Cerdyn Melyn’ provides information on the individual and the kind of support they may need including who to contact should the passenger encounter difficulties.
The idea for the card has been promoted by Clebran, a forum for young disabled people to voice their opinions, organised by Barnardo’s Cymru in Gwynedd. The group has identified a number of difficulties its members have encountered when using or attempting to use public transport.
Staff from Gwynedd Council’s Integrated Transport Unit (ITU) have previously held a ‘Train Training’ event in partnership with TraCC, the Mid Wales Transport Consortium and Arriva Trains Wales to support and encourage vulnerable youngsters to use public transport. This event led to a more programmed and comprehensive approach to addressing equality and accessibility issues that can be a barrier to many disabled people.
Julie Mair, project worker at Barnardo’s Cymru said: “It’s very encouraging that the ITU is looking at practical initiatives that can make a real difference to the lives of the people that Clebran represents. Transport is an integral element that facilitates everyday activities that most people take for granted. The forum has been discussing a number of obstacles that the young people have come across.”
Medwyn Griffiths from the ITU said: “The work we are doing is all about giving users the confidence to travel on their own and live more independent lives. To allow this we are working with service operators to develop their skills and understanding of the support that some more vulnerable customers may require.”
The new initiative was recently launched when members of Clebran got an opportunity to use the cards on local public transport routes to and from Porthmadog on Saturday, 10 November.
Julie Mair added: “Local bus companies and Arriva Trains Wales have been really supportive in facilitating these events and on behalf of the members of Clebran and I would like to express our sincere thanks to them”
To find out more and to apply for a ‘Cerdyn Melyn’ please contact 01286 679535 or e-mail [email protected]
