Will you be bustling about our transport system this week? Will you feel disabled by the design of that system? Perhaps you are fortunate to not have a sight impairment or don’t need to use a wheelchair. But suppose that wasn’t the case?

“1 in 5 people has a disability … 9 out of every 10 people acquired their disability during their lifetime [not at birth]”. Take a moment to reflect – any of us could face disability. But what does that feel like?

I had the great privilege of spending time yesterday at a fantastic new facility in Dublin called ‘The Wayfinding Centre’ which focuses on the need to make transport accessibility for everyone. Thank you Jodie for hosting us. And thank you Helena and Jake for being so generous in sharing your lived experience of disability as young people in Ireland.

Here are a few points I took away:

Imagine, even for your routine journeys (let alone the unfamiliar ones) that they are inconsistent and unpredictable. Not being guaranteed to find the help you need, even if you’ve arranged it in advance.

If you’re registered blind you may have some residual vision. Imagine travelling at night if there is no lighting or poorly designed lighting – the shapes of landmarks you rely on disappear. As a young blind woman, imagine how vulnerable you could feel.

A person disabled by the environment they face may welcome your help. When you offer it, do so thoughtfully. Gently introduce yourself. Be guided by them – ask don’t presume. Someone who is sight impaired is likely to wish to hold your elbow not the other way around. Someone in a wheelchair may wish you to be in front, not pushing them. Don’t pet a guide dog – it distracts them and they have a job to do. Invading someone’s autonomy, even with the best intentions can make the person feel less human.

Bad design is degrading.

Thank you Glenn Hingerty for organising my visit with Sue Percy on behalf of the Republic of Ireland branch of Chartered Institution of Highways & Transportation (CIHT). The visit to the new National Train Control Centre was also fascinating.

Watch this space for an important new CIHT report on accessibility for all coming soon.

Nick Tyler CBE FREng your ears must have been burning over the last day or two?!

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