Advice: Travelling With NF

A recent news story involving Brianna Solari, a nurse from California with NF, brings to light the difficulties faced by individuals with visible or non-visible conditions. Solari was reportedly asked to leave a flight due to concerns related to her condition after having undergone surgery to treat her Neurofibromas. Her experience left her feeling humiliated and discriminated against, sparking a conversation about the need for better support and sensitivity from travel providers.

To help ensure that your travels are as smooth and stress-free as possible, we’ve compiled essential information about your rights and the assistance available when travelling by train, plane, car, bus, taxi, boat or ferry based on Government policy. By knowing what to expect and how to prepare, you can advocate for yourself and make informed decisions, helping to avoid situations where you might feel marginalised or misunderstood.

Trains

Travelling by train can be a convenient option, and there are specific services in place to support passengers with disabilities:

• Advance Notice and Assistance: You can inform National Rail train companies in advance if you need help from staff during your journey. It’s also advisable to check if the station you’ll be using has accessible facilities.
• Wheelchair Access: Most mainline trains have dedicated spaces for wheelchairs. Ensure that your wheelchair is securely placed in the designated area, and remember to apply the brakes or switch off the power if your wheelchair is electric.
• Accessible Travel Policy (ATP): All licensed train companies must provide information on available services and facilities, as well as how to get assistance, particularly during disruptions. This information is available through each company’s Accessible Travel Policy (ATP), which you can request directly from them.
• Disabled Persons Railcard: If eligible, you can apply for a Disabled Person’s Railcard, which offers up to a third off rail tickets. Evidence of a relevant disability is required to qualify.

Reporting Problems: If you’re dissatisfied with the assistance provided, you can lodge a complaint directly with the train company. Should the issue remain unresolved, you may contact the Rail Ombudsman for further support.

Planes

Air travel requires a bit more preparation, but knowing your rights can make the process smoother:

• Advance Notification: Inform your airline at least 48 hours before departure if you require any assistance.
• Airport Facilities: Different airlines and airports offer various facilities for disabled passengers, such as accessible toilets. Check with your airport or airline in advance to ensure they have what you need.
• Assistance at the Airport: UK and EU airports are required to provide assistance for passengers with sensory, physical, or learning disabilities that affect mobility. This includes help at arrival points, moving through the airport, and boarding the plane. You’re also entitled to this assistance due to age or temporary injury, such as a broken leg.
• Wheelchair and Mobility Aid Transport: You can bring up to two items of mobility equipment free of charge. Your wheelchair will be stored in the hold during the flight, so inform your airline in advance if you’re travelling with a battery-powered wheelchair or mobility aid.
• Travelling with a Companion: If you require personal assistance during the flight (e.g., for feeding, using medication, or accessing the toilet), you must travel with a companion. Notify the airline at least 48 hours in advance to ensure you’re seated together.
• Assistance Dogs: If you’re travelling with an assistance dog, you have the right to bring them on the flight. Make sure to comply with the rules on pet travel.

Reporting Problems: Any issues with the assistance provided should be reported directly to the airport or airline. If unresolved, you can escalate your complaint to an Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) body or the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).

Cars, Buses, and Coaches

When travelling by road, there are several schemes and services in place to assist individuals with disabilities:

• Driving with a Disability: If you have a medical condition or disability, it’s essential to understand the requirements for learning to drive and obtaining insurance.
• Blue Badge Scheme: The Blue Badge Scheme allows you to park closer to your destination if you have a disability.
• Motability Scheme: This scheme can assist you in leasing a car, powered wheelchair, or scooter.
• Bus Passes: You may be eligible for a bus pass that grants free travel if you’re disabled. These passes are valid across England during specific times.
• Assistance on Buses and Coaches: Drivers are legally required to provide reasonable assistance to disabled passengers, such as helping you get on and off the vehicle. If you need extra help when travelling by coach, make sure to request it when booking your ticket.

Reporting Problems: Complaints about bus or coach services should be directed to the operator. If the issue isn’t resolved, you can contact Bus Users UK, London TravelWatch, or your local government ombudsman depending on your location.

Taxis and Minicabs

Taxis and minicabs offer flexibility in travel, and there are legal protections in place for passengers with disabilities:

• Legal Protections: It’s illegal for taxi or minicab drivers to refuse service based on a disability or for travelling with an assistance dog. Drivers who do so can face fines or lose their licence.
• Assistance from Drivers: Drivers are required to help you access their service, such as assisting with getting in and out of the vehicle, handling your mobility aids, and ensuring you understand the journey route and fare.
• Exemptions for Drivers: Some drivers may be exempt from providing physical assistance due to their own medical conditions. This exemption should be clearly indicated on the vehicle.
• Wheelchair Access: In many large cities, taxis are required to be wheelchair accessible. Contact your local council’s taxi licensing office to find out if accessible taxis are available in your area.
• Assistance Dogs: Your assistance dog is entitled to travel with you, except in cases where the driver has a valid exemption. Make sure your dog is identifiable by its harness or jacket, and carry its identification card if available.

Reporting Problems: Any issues should be reported to your local council’s taxi licensing office.

Boats and Ferries

When travelling by sea, whether on a cruise or ferry, there are provisions to ensure your journey is accessible:

• Advance Arrangements: Notify the cruise line, ferry service, or tour operator at least 48 hours in advance if you need specific accommodations, such as accessible seating or cabin arrangements.
• Assistance with Boarding: Make sure to inform the service provider if you need help getting on or off the ship.
• Travelling with a Carer: On ferries, your carer may be able to travel for free, so it’s worth checking with the service provider.

Reporting Problems: Should you have any issues with the assistance provided, complaints can be directed to the relevant organisation, such as the Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA) for ferries or the Cruise Line International Association (CLIA) for cruises.

Conclusion

Travelling with a long-term medical condition or disability requires careful planning, but with the right information and support, it can be a positive and enjoyable experience. Make sure to take advantage of the services and rights available to you, and don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance whenever you need it. Safe travels!