Transport for London (TfL) is launching the ‘Please offer me a seat’ scheme for people who find it difficult to stand when using public transport. The badge and accompanying card were created following requests from customers who struggle to get a seat because their need is not immediately apparent to other travellers. The badge and card remove the awkwardness of customers having to explain their need for a seat to others.
Last autumn, TFL held a six week trial with 1,200 people to test the new badge and card. More than 72 per cent of journeys were found to be easier as a result of the badge, and 98 per cent of people taking part said they would recommend it to somebody who needed it. As a result, TfL are making the ‘Please offer me a seat’ initiative permanent. The free badge and card are now available through their website, at www.tfl.gov.uk/transport-accessibility/please-offer-me-a-seat or by calling on 0343 222 1234.
There are no qualifying criteria – applicants do not need to provide a GP’s note or their medical history. The badge and card can be used across the network, on London Underground, London Overground, Buses, Docklands Light Railway, TfL Rail, Trams and River Services.
Look out for the hashtag #Pleaseoffermeaseat on Twitter, Transport for London would welcome any re-tweets to help spread the word about this important new scheme. To find out more about how they are making London’s transport network more accessible, please visit www.tfl.gov.uk/accessibility which includes information about support from staff, maps, guides and leaflets, and other accessible features. You can also follow them on Twitter at @TfLAccess.