Merseyrail needs your help to improve accessibility services

The first meeting of the forum - launched in partnership with Network Rail and Liverpool City Region Combined Authority - took place last month.

Among those attending were service users and representatives from 17 organisations across the voluntary sector that support people with accessible travel needs on the rail network.

They were updated on changes made due to the pandemic, including continuing to provide passenger assistance and guidance around face covering exemption.

They were also updated on the new Merseyrail trains, step-free access across the network and potential new stations.

There was also an update from Network Rail on the roll-out of a new Passenger Assistance web application across the UK rail network.

The new fleet of Merseyrail trains will feature sliding step technology, enabling passengers to use the train with step-free access and without the need for assistance. This will make Merseyrail the most accessible, traditional network in the country.

There was a consultation around Merseyrail's current accessibility travel training for front-line staff and attendees fed back on how this could be improved further.

Greg Suligowski, head of customer and stakeholder at Merseyrail, said: "At Merseyrail we pride ourselves on being one of the most accessible rail networks in the country.

"It was fantastic to bring together so many of our key stakeholders from across the City Region in what was a successful first meeting.

"The forum provides an opportunity to share ideas and gain valuable feedback from those that use our services, including those that rely on assistance to travel.

"We are always looking for more organisations or individuals to join the forum and anyone interested should contact our customer relations team at comment@merseyrail.org or by calling 0151 555 1111."

More information on Merseyrail’s Assisted Travel service can be found here: https://www.merseyrail.org/plan-your-journey/assisted-travel.aspx.