Planned rail ticket office closures. Any concerns?

Dee78

Hi all,
I don’t have all the information at my fingertips, but listening to the news, I’m concerned about rapid mass planned ticket office closures and potential impact on disabled people like me or those with varying needs.
Anyone else has more information on this? Is it happening for sure? Is Scope campaigning on this matter? How are the railway going to make sure those with disabilities or vulnerabilities don’t suffer?
If the plan is more ticket machines and roving staff who wander around the station to help people, instead of a guaranteed person behind a desk, then I am concerned.

- How will some people who can’t access machines get help??

- What ( as has happened to me) special assistance doesn’t turn up, but you’re not fully mobile to go wandering around the station looking for staff?

- What ( as happens to me in supermarkets) if there are only automated machines , but short staffed with one staff member so busy running around helping other customers, that they cannot help the disabled person who is standing there in pain waiting for help? 

I am sure there are many other scenarios? Anyway, I can only hope they have thought of every eventuality and planned for it.. But I have my doubts. 

bg844

I do feel quite sad seeing the planned closures, which will affect my local ticket office. I do feel it is a sign of the times however, I personally use an app now to purchase my train tickets which is much easier. If you don't have a mobile phone or a bank account for whatever reason then you are stuck if you need to purchase a ticket and the machines are down!

Dee78

Thanks both for your comments and experiences, glad that you are able to buy train tickets  online. Yes, it will still be sad to see ticket offices  go. 
I think the issue is that ticket desks have a multi function of accessible information hubs, and can advise on complex journeys, delays etc and not all disabled ( eg visually impaired) can find a roaming station staff in time to make their connection or train. 
 Some ticket machines are not accessible if you have mobility or cognitive issues like dementia. 

Great article below on concerns from Disability Rights
https://www.disabilityrightsuk.org/news/impact-ticket-office-closures-disabled-people

Dee78

PS: While many tickets are bought online, still 1/8 are bought at the station. This can include those who cannot access online due to disability, learning difficulty , but also those without a UK bank account, eg tourists, low incomes etc