The UK’s largest coach operator, National Express, is strengthening its commitment to create an accessible service inclusive of all customers and their needs by becoming an official member of Business Disability Forum, the leading not-for-profit, business and disability organisation. 

The announcement comes ahead of Disability Awareness Day (14th July), the annual event focuses on the achievements of disabled people in work and in life. 

Chris Hardy, managing director of National Express UK Coach, commented: "We're really pleased to be joining Business Disability Forum and we're looking forward to working together to improve access to our national coach network. We are committed to providing inclusive and accessible transport for all and a key part of this is understanding and overcoming barriers to travel for disabled people.”

Business Disability Forum is calling for all public transport to be made more inclusive as part of its Going Places campaign. The campaign aims to break down the barriers disabled people face in accessing employment and society, more widely. It is also currently conducting a survey, ‘Getting There: How accessible is transport in 2019?’, asking people with disabilities and long-term conditions to share their experiences of using public transport. The findings from the research are due to be published later this month.

Diane Lightfoot, CEO, Business Disability Forum, said: "Transport plays a vital role in our society, and has a large impact on people's day-to-day lives. It supports us in getting to work, connecting with friends, family and accessing wider services. National Express understands the importance of its role in creating a more inclusive society and we are proud the organisation is joining Business Disability Forum as part of its accessibility and inclusion journey. We look forward to providing support in becoming a more inclusive business and creating a more accessible service."