When: January 23rd 2017, 1000 (for 1030) -1630

Where: Transport for London, 197 Blackfriars Road, London, SE18NJ (opposite Southwark underground station)

Out of Sight, Out of Mind -- Understanding Transport and Mobility Issues for People with Hidden Disabilities

An Accessibility and Inclusion Forum seminar exploring hidden disabilities and the role transport can play to promote accessibility. 

 “An invisible disability is a disability that cannot be seen, may not require a wheelchair, crutches or a blue badge”. Invisible Disabilities UK

Staff working in the transport industries – as elsewhere – are now routinely trained in meeting the needs of disabled people. However, much of the emphasis remains on those people whose disabilities are apparent – wheelchair users, people with walking difficulty, those who are blind and use a long cane or a guide dog. But, for example, fewer than 8% of disabled people use wheelchairs.

For those people whose disabilities are not apparent, but who may experience chronic pain or anxiety or any one of a wide range of other physical or psychological challenges to their independent mobility, the attitude of transport providers and the level of understanding of their needs is often very poor. And yet for many, being able to use public transport with confidence and dignity is a vital part of recovery or simply of long term daily living.

The seminar will explore the needs of people whose disabilities are “hidden” and will discuss what can and should be done to recognise them more routinely and sensitively. Policies and practice as well as training requirements will be explored. 

A draft programme is available here.  

Book online now or contact Membership Services, Tel: 01536 740104 or email: membership@ciltuk.org.uk  quoting the event code: AIF0307

Cost: Member: Free; Non-Member: Free