National Express
Who Are Transpennine Express?
TransPennine Express is a major train operator in the United Kingdom, providing intercity services across northern England and into Scotland. Known for their fast and reliable routes, TPE connects major cities such as Manchester, Leeds, Liverpool, Sheffield, York, and Edinburgh. The company prides itself on offering modern trains with comfortable amenities for all travelers, making it a popular choice for both leisure and business journeys.
National Express operates an extensive network, ensuring that passengers have access to reliable and affordable travel options, whether for leisure, business, or other needs. The company’s commitment to accessibility means that people with disabilities can enjoy safe and inclusive travel across the UK.
What Areas Do Transpennine Express Cover?
TransPennine Express services span across key northern and Scottish destinations, linking urban hubs, scenic countryside, and coastal locations. Their primary routes include:
North West England: Cities like Manchester, Liverpool, and Preston.
Yorkshire: Including Leeds, Sheffield, and York.
North East England: With stops in Newcastle and Middlesbrough.
Scotland: Services extending to Edinburgh and Glasgow.
TPE provides excellent connectivity for commuters, tourists, and travelers seeking to explore the rich culture and landscapes of the region.
How is Transpennine Express Wheelchair and Disability Friendly?
The company is deeply committed to making travel accessible for all customers, ensuring that individuals with disabilities feel confident and supported throughout their journeys. The accessibility team works tirelessly to make services, stations, and digital content inclusive, continuously trialing and developing new initiatives to improve the experience for disabled and older customers.
Here are some of the key features designed to support accessibility:
Passenger Assist: Disabled and older customers can request assistance from staff to help with boarding, alighting, and navigating stations. Support includes providing ramps, lifting luggage, helping with stairs where step-free access is unavailable, and offering wheelchairs or buggies for longer distances. The Passenger Assist Team is available to discuss specific needs at each station.
Blue Badge Holders: Blue Badge holders can park for free in the station car parks, with prior registration required through APCOA, the parking partner, to avoid charges.
British Sign Language (BSL): The company provides a video interpreter service for BSL users via InterpretersLive!, available at all managed ticket offices. Select stations are also equipped with BSL totems to deliver live announcements in BSL.
Changing Places: Changing Places facilities are available at Manchester Airport, Stalybridge, and Dewsbury stations, with an additional facility opening soon in Middlesbrough. These fully accessible facilities include a hoist and height-adjustable changing bench for individuals who cannot use standard accessible toilets independently.
Support for Customers with Medical Oxygen: Small, portable oxygen cylinders are permitted on trains, provided the user can administer the oxygen or has someone with them who can. Guidelines ensure that oxygen cylinders are stowed safely during travel.
GoodMaps In-Station Mapping: To assist with navigation, the company offers live wayfinding maps for all stations, helping customers plan their routes in unfamiliar or busy locations.
My Station View Station Tours: Personalized virtual tours of stations and trains are available, providing 360-degree views to help customers plan their journey. This tool highlights accessible routes and key points of interest, including the best places to relax or grab a coffee.
Neurodiversity and Anxiety Support: The company is developing “Social Stories,” resources designed to help customers with neurodiverse conditions or anxiety. These stories reduce surprises and help customers prepare for their trip. There is also a visual travel checklist to ensure customers have everything they need for a smooth journey.
Room Mate Devices: All accessible toilets are equipped with Room Mate devices that audibly describe the layout of the facilities for those with visual impairments.
How to Book Accessible Travel with Transpennine Express
Booking travel with Transpennine Express is simple and can be done online, over the phone, or at their designated stations. When booking online, be sure to specify your accessibility needs (such as requesting passenger assistance) so that the team can ensure the appropriate arrangements are made for your journey.
For more information on accessibility or to book a journey with Transpennine Express, visit their official website: Transpennine Express