Voi signs SLC E-bike Charter
Blind and partially sighted Sight Loss Council (SLC) members from London SLCs have secured Voi as the third e-bike operator to sign our E-Bike Charter.
By signing the charter, the Swedish e-bike and e-scooter operator has committed to six key principles. This is to support the safety of blind and partially sighted (BPS) pedestrians.
The development of the charter was led by London Sight Loss Councils in response to growing concerns around e-bikes cluttering our pavements and streets.
Photo of somebody correctly parking their Voi e-bike using the app
Voi vehicles are available in 17 towns and cities across the UK. They are a key player, responsible for around two-in-every-three official e-scooter rides in England.
The operator’s signature coincides with its launch of a ‘responsible e-bike pilot’ in London.
Working with the London Borough of Ealing, designated parking areas are being marked out to minimise pavement clutter and the risks it poses for BPS people. Data from the pilot will be shared more openly with the boroughs and Transport for London (TfL).
Haren Thillainathan, South West London SLC member, said:
“I’m delighted that Voi has become a signatory to the E-Bike Charter, and is working with London SLCs to ensure e-bike use does not compromise the safety and accessibility of the capital’s walkways for blind and partially sighted people.
“I’m particularly impressed with Voi’s commitment to operating a mandatory parking policy in Ealing, requiring all their bikes to be left only in designated off-pavement bays.”
Nicki Guy, Senior Engagement Manager for South of England, said:
“We’re delighted to welcome Voi as the third operator to sign our E-Bike Charter. Their commitment marks another important step towards safer, more accessible streets for blind and partially sighted people in London.
“Collaboration with e-bike providers is essential in creating an inclusive environment where everyone can navigate public spaces with confidence and independence.”
Voi UK’s Public Policy Manager, Harry Foskin, added:
“Voi is proud to collaborate with boroughs to prove a new, more responsible approach to e-bikes is possible in London.
“We want our service to work for both riders and the rest of the community – including blind and partially sighted pedestrians. That’s why it was important to us to sign London Sight Loss Councils’ E-Bike Charter ahead of launching our first e-bikes here.
“We look forward to growing our partnership with London Sight Loss Councils to ensure Voi e-bikes pose as few obstacles as possible to blind and partially sighted people navigating the city.”
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Publication date: 20 May 2025