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Picture this: multiple buses using multiple routes, potential encounters with strangers, the drama of passengers hogging the seats, and the suspense of crime lurking in the shadows. And just when you think it can’t get any worse, cue the rain pouring down!
What is Bus Day?
Navigating London’s public transport can be quite the challenge. That’s why Ealing Mencap hosts Bus Day, an event that supports young people with Learning Disabilities to gain skills in travelling safely on London’s buses. Throughout the day, different scenarios are simulated. There was; a pick-pocketer, rowdy passengers singing around the bus, strangers asking questions and safety while crossing the road. Each scenario gives the young people an idea of what to do in the situation and how to remain safe. The aim of this is to equip people with Learning Disabilities with essential skills, knowledge, and confidence, to open the doors to travelling independently.
Students ready for bus day!
Safety when crossing the road.
Group Photo
Why is independent travel essential?
In 2018, councils in England allocated £1 billion annually for transportation services such as taxis, minibuses, and other travel arrangements to get children to and from school or college. An ADCS survey highlighted that 64% of this spending in 2015-16 was directed towards children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), rising to 98% in London alone, with an estimated total spending of £969,000 for that year. These figures highlight the pressing need for individuals with Learning Disabilities to acquire skills in using public transport. The potential of people with Learning Disabilities utilising public transport could significantly impact the expense of private transport fares.
This is not to say that private services that support people with Learning Disabilities to travel in order to access opportunities are not necessary, but if an individual is able and willing to use public transport, they should be facilitated with the skills to do so, decreasing the pressure on local authorities to provide private transport. This is why Ealing Mencap strives to give as many people with Learning Disabilities the opportunity to be provided with travel training and celebrates that 199 students are now travelling independently due to our support.
Find out more here.
Ealing Mencap’s Bus Day was a huge success and every student said they felt more confident using the bus at the end of the day!
Travel Training Team
If you would like to find out more about Travel Training click here.
If you would like to make a donation to help Ealing Mencap to continue to support people with Learning Disabilities to live life to their fullest, click here.
