Access Lewis | Advice to travellers

Advice to travellers

Checklist - before you travel:

Key points to remember when planning any journey:

Check that the transport vehicles and buildings are accessible at all stages of your journey.
Think about when you need to travel, for example it may make your journey easier and more comfortable if you can avoid travelling at rush hour.
You may also need to allow a little more time to make the journey, especially if you are using more than one form of transport or have to change vehicles.
If you need to pre-book your travel arrangements let the provider know your travel needs and be sure they understand what you require - never assume that people will automatically know or understand your individual needs.
Even if you are able to travel independently, you may still need to book assistance, for example wheelchair users will need to book ramps to board most trains.
Some operators, usually airline or ferry companies might insist that you travel with a non-disabled companion or personal assistant.
Make sure you have all the medication and equipment that you need to make the trip. It is also a good idea to carry a little extra in case you are delayed.
If you need to travel with an Assistance Dog, make sure you know the company's rules and regulations. You will also need to check there will be appropriate facilities for them.
Make sure that you know what toilet facilities will be available. This is especially important on longer journeys. For example if you are a wheelchair user it is unlikely that you will be able to use the on-board toilet on a long distance coach, so you will need to make sure that there are comfort stops along the way at service stations. You should also remember that transport staff may be able to help you get to the toilet cubicle, but they will not be able to help you once you are inside.
It is a good idea to check catering arrangements, especially on longer journeys. On some journeys there may be a trolley or 'at seat' service, but on others such as long distance coaches you may have to get off the coach at a service station, or be expected to take your own food.
Make sure that your insurance covers any equipment that you need to travel with, for example wheelchairs.
If you are travelling to an unfamiliar place with equipment, it is a good idea to find contact details for a local repair or hire company in case something goes wrong or breaks down.
Make sure you also make the appropriate arrangements for your return journey.
Don't forget to give good feedback and compliments if your journey goes well, not just complaints if things go wrong.

Advice to travellers

Check that the transport vehicles and buildings are accessible at all stages of your journey.

Think about when you need to travel, for example it may make your journey easier and more comfortable if you can avoid travelling at rush hour.

You may also need to allow a little more time to make the journey, especially if you are using more than one form of transport or have to change vehicles.

If you need to pre-book your travel arrangements let the provider know your travel needs and be sure they understand what you require - never assume that people will automatically know or understand your individual needs.

Even if you are able to travel independently, you may still need to book assistance, for example wheelchair users will need to book ramps to board most trains.

Some operators, usually airline or ferry companies might insist that you travel with a non-disabled companion or personal assistant.

Make sure you have all the medication and equipment that you need to make the trip. It is also a good idea to carry a little extra in case you are delayed.

If you need to travel with an Assistance Dog, make sure you know the company's rules and regulations. You will also need to check there will be appropriate facilities for them.

It is a good idea to check catering arrangements, especially on longer journeys. On some journeys there may be a trolley or 'at seat' service, but on others such as long distance coaches you may have to get off the coach at a service station, or be expected to take your own food.

Make sure that your insurance covers any equipment that you need to travel with, for example wheelchairs.

If you are travelling to an unfamiliar place with equipment, it is a good idea to find contact details for a local repair or hire company in case something goes wrong or breaks down.

Make sure you also make the appropriate arrangements for your return journey.

Don't forget to give good feedback and compliments if your journey goes well, not just complaints if things go wrong.