Introduction
There is some help for Deaf people with travelling. This section tells you about help you can get when you travel by bus, rail, air and sea. There is also information about holidays.
Rail travel
The Disabled Person’s Railcard gives some reduction on the cost of fares for people who are registered as Deaf with Somerset Council. You can get an information leaflet giving more details about the railcard from your local railway station or from National Rail direct.
Disabled Person’s Railcard Office
PO Box 6613
Arbroath
DD11 9AN
Phone: 0345 605 0525
Textphone: 0345 601 0132
You can download an application form from: www.disabledperson-railcard.co.uk
It is possible to ask for assistance when you are travelling by train. Each train company makes its own arrangements, but you will need to book this at least 24 hours in advice. Information about how to contact the train companies is available from your local station, or from:
National Rail
Phone: 08457 484950
Textphone: 0845 6050600
Website: www.nationalrail.co.uk
Bus travel
The Somerset Travelpass allows free travel on all local buses and some express services in Somerset.
You are eligible for a Somerset travel pass if:
- You are a Somerset resident and are of pensionable age
- You are under 60 and are profoundly or severely Deaf
- You are unable to drive on medical grounds
If you are only able to use public transport with the help of a carer, you may be eligible for a Companion Travelpass. This would entitle your companion to free travel. The pass is valid between 9.30am and 11pm on weekdays, and all day at weekends and on public holidays.
Email: generalenquiries@somerset.gov.uk
SMS text: 07862 122246
Air travel
When you book a flight, always tell your airline, travel agent, or tour operator if you are Deaf, deaf or hard of hearing, and require assistance. You should always request this at least 48 hours before you fly. If you need assistance at the airport, you can arrange for someone to help you through check-in, baggage check and custom controls. You can ask a member of staff to inform you personally at the time of boarding announcements. Most airports have induction loop facilities and Textphones. Staff at the Information Desks should be able to assist you. There are also TV monitors which display visual information.
On board the plane, you should inform cabin staff that you are unable to hear, so they can inform you of any important announcements. Safety information videos should be subtitled and you may also be able to pick up public announcements through induction loops on the plane.
Travelling by sea
Before booking your journey, check with the ferry company, cruise operator or travel agent that they will be able to assist with any requirements you have. Your travel agent should have a copy of the Association of British Travel Agents Checklist for Travellers with Disabilities. This questionnaire will check the suitability of the accommodation, transport and facilities at your destination.
Travelling with an assistance dog
If you have an assistance dog, it can only travel under the Pet Passport Scheme. For more information contact:
Helpline: 0370 241 1710
Email: pettravel@ahvla.gsi.gov.uk
Website: www.gov.uk/pet-travel-information-for-pet-owners
Holidays, events and activities
Several specialist organisations offer holidays for Deaf and hard of hearing people in this country and abroad.
Travel-Quest
This organisation provides travel and holidays for people who are Deaf.
Quest Directories
40 Magdalen Avenue
Bath
BA2 4QB
Website: www.travel-quest.co.uk
National Deaf Children’s Society (NDCS)
This organisation runs events and activities for young people, families and professionals throughout the UK. To find out more contact:
Phone: 020 7490 8656
Minicom: 020 7490 8656
Fax: 020 7251 5020
Email: ndcs@ndcs.org.uk
Website: www.ndcs.org.uk