The National Autistic Society has recognised Great Western Railway (GWR) for providing an autism-friendly environment.
The Autism Friendly Award has been presented to GWR for a host of autism-awareness initiatives being trialled at stations in the west of its network.
The rail operator has created several autism-friendly products specifically designed to help autistic people to be able to travel by train including:
A sound-series that allows autistic people to understand the sounds they may experience when travelling by train.
Created virtual video tours of stations to better allow people to navigate the station prior to arrival.
Created sensory packs that provide coping tools to allow travel more comfortable.
Provided awareness training for more than 700 frontline colleagues between Plymouth and Penzance.
Made available ear defenders, put in place to support passengers who experience over-stimulation or sensory overload.
Continued and further advertised the ‘Try a Train’ programme which supports individuals/groups in developing their travelling confidence.
The National Autistic Society, the UK’s leading charity for autistic people and their families, established the Autism Friendly Award to encourage and help businesses to create more welcoming environments for autistic people throughout the UK.
“We'd like to congratulate GWR on achieving our new Autism Friendly Award,” said Christine Flintoft-Smith, Head of Autism Accreditation at the National Autistic Society.
“Every organisation that gains the Autism Friendly Award will be helping to make the UK a more autism-friendly place and make a difference to the lives of autistic people and their families.
“There are lots of small changes which can make to better support autistic people, and just a little understanding can go a long way. We're looking forward to working with as many businesses as possible to help create a society that works for autistic people.”
GWR operates trains across South Wales, the West Country, the Cotswolds, across southern England and into London. To find out more go to https://www.gwr.com/travel-information/passenger-assist
Comments