Booking assistance when travelling by train hasn't always been the easiest thing to do for disabled travellers, it can either be a lengthy process or people simply don't have the awareness of how to go about booking assistance.
TravelReport, in collaboration with National Rail, have designed an application that hopes to resolve those issues and modernise the process for travellers.

Passenger Assistance

The app, which was recently released on Apple and Android devices, provides users with the ability to book and manage assistance through their smartphone, and store their information on their profile to make future bookings simpler. To read further information about the application, read on or visit this link to view the full text.

"We’ve created an app that takes the time and fuss out of requesting assistance when you want to travel. In just a few clicks you can request to book assistance, so every rail journey you take is as stress-free as possible. Our trusted technology means you can let station staff know your exact accessibility needs. Independence and flexibility has never been easier."

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZY0ktlJcDXw

How it works

1. "Simply download the Passenger Assistance app onto your smartphone to begin your fuss-free travel experience. Our app has been designed in consultation with those who have accessibility needs and is suitable for screen-readers. The app is available on iOS and android smartphones.
2. Setup your profile. Whether you’re a wheelchair user, have an assistance dog or live with a non-visible impairment, simply fill in your profile and provide as much information as you’d like - you are in control of your profile. Whatever your accessibility needs, there’s a space for it all to be listed here.
3. Let us know where you’ll be travelling to and from, on what day and at which time, so station staff have all the details they need to make your journey run smoothly.
4. Send your request to book assistance on the app and this will be sent directly to the train operator, who will arrange assistance for you. We will tell you when your booking is confirmed. Then, all you have to do is book your ticket and you’re on your way."

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MhEdU1DMwaw
Again, you can visit this link for further information and details of how to download the app.

Over to you

• What do you think of the app?
• Is it something you would use? 
• Have you ever booked assistance before when travelling by rail?