Thank you to all constituents for sending me
a copy of the campaign email from the guide dogs association. I know of the
excellent work they do and the help they provide to so many in our communities.
All businesses have a legal obligation to assist
and update their practices to assist disabled groups and it is important that
as they consider the knock-on effect of the current medical crisis they
remember this important part in their planning and execution.
I contacted Cornwall Council and have a reply from them
on this important matter:
“Thank
you for your email [name redacted] regarding accessibility to public transport
for those with limited vision.
As you
will appreciate, the Covid-19 pandemic and our subsequent lockdown period has
seen bus service patronage across Cornwall reduce dramatically to less than 10%
of normal loadings. Nevertheless, local bus companies are following
Government guidance to provide a safe journey for keyworkers and those who are
unable to access essential services without the use of bus services. The
bus companies are paying particular attention to social distancing, reducing
interaction between driver and passenger but in the meantime also offering as
much support as is necessary to ensure people can board and feel safe and
assured to travel by bus. All bus companies observe codes of conduct when
providing for the more vulnerable and needy of our society. Of course,
passengers are also encouraged to follow Government guidance on how to avoid
contact and social distance. Information on bus services is being
provided to passengers through a variety of means such as telephone help desks
at Traveline South West, online, via app but also at the roadside. [name
redacted] can rest assured that her well-being and safety will be paramount in
the bus driver’s mind should she present herself for travel.
The
advice from the Charity Guide Dogs is welcomed - we will use this to gently
remind our local bus companies of its content and very useful guidance. If we
can provide any further information to you or [name redacted], please do not
hesitate to contact us.’
I hope
this is helpful and am pleased they are circulating the advice your provided to
the local bus companies.
Thanks
again for getting in touch and do let me know if I can ever be of further
assistance with any other matter in the future”.
ENDS
I am also in regular touch with many businesses
across the county and will be pleased to highlight the matter you raise where
appropriate.
