Travel in London

National Rail

Added: 11 February 2009 | Updated: 21 June 2011

The accessibility of the national train network has improved significantly over the last decade. Train companies have invested in trains with a number of accessibility features, including wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets.

However the main problem that rail passengers face is actually getting onto the train in the first place. Station accessibility is improving but still leaves a lot to be desired. However all Train Operating Companies (TOCs) are obliged to offer you assistance in making your trip. You do however need to inform them up to 24 hours before you embark on your journey. Assistance can include a ramp being laid out for you to board and disembark the train, or making a staff member available to accompany you.

If you know the name of the train company you want to travel with, you can find their contact details here: http://www.nationalrail.co.uk/tocs_maps/tocs/

If you do not, then comprehensive station accessibility information can be found here by typing in a station name:
http://www.nationalrail.co.uk/stations/

In some cases where the TOCs cannot offer you assistance or access at a particular station, you are well within your rights to ask for a taxi to the nearest station where assistance can be given. This falls under the ‘reasonable adjustments’ clause of the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA). TfA can assist you with this, so get in touch.