Bolt joins London Sight Loss Councils’ E-Bike Charter

Bolt has signed London Sight Loss Councils’ E-Bike Charter, joining a growing group of shared e-bike operators committed to making London’s streets safer and more accessible for blind and partially sighted people.

London Sight Loss Councils (SLC) developed the charter in response to concerns about e-bikes being left obstructing pavements, dropped kerbs, and doorways. When bikes are parked irresponsibly, they can create significant hazards for blind and partially sighted people, increasing the risk of trips, falls and collisions. This makes it much harder to travel independently and confidently.

By signing the Charter, Bolt has committed to six key principles covering responsible parking, rider education, and collaboration with local authorities. The aim is to reduce street clutter and help ensure public spaces are safe, accessible, and welcoming for everyone. Bolt will work with London SLC to put the Charter’s principles into practice across its service.

South West London Sight Loss Council member Haren walks along a residential pavement with guide dog Addie. Addie is wearing a guide dog harness and leads the way past parked cars and terraced houses.

Haren, and Guide Dog Addie, walking down a residential street

A shared commitment to accessibility

Haren, South West London SLC member, said:

Headshot of London SLC member, Haren Thillainathan. He standing outside under a tree in the sunshine. He is wearing a red and navy t-shirt.“I’m pleased that Bolt has agreed to sign up to our E-Bike Charter and work with us to help ensure e-bikes are operated safely and responsibly for the benefit of blind and partially sighted pedestrians in London.

“Bolt’s commitment is a promising start to a collaborative relationship with London Sight Loss Councils, and I look forward to building on this partnership in the future.”

Liam O’Carroll, Interim Engagement Manager for London Sight Loss Councils, added:

Black and white headshot of Liam O'Carroll. His head is turned slightly to the side and he is smiling.

“I’m really pleased that Bolt has signed up to our E-Bike Charter.

“This is great news for blind and partially sighted Londoners, who are too often affected by e-bikes being left obstructing pavements, dropped kerbs and other key routes. By committing to the Charter’s principles, Bolt is helping to make our streets safer and more accessible for everyone.

“We look forward to continuing to work with Bolt to promote responsible parking and build a safer, more inclusive e-bike culture across London.”

Georgia Heathman, UK Policy Lead at Bolt, said:

“Blind and partially sighted people should be able to move around London safely and with confidence. Signing the E-Bike Charter is a commitment to play our part in making that happen, from how our bikes are parked to how we educate our riders.

“We’re grateful to London Sight Loss Councils for their leadership on this issue, and we look forward to working closely with their volunteers to make sure our service works for the whole community.”

A male, wearing sunglasses, rides a green Bolt e-bike along a quiet city street lined with white and red-brick buildings. The bike has a black front basket displaying the Bolt logo. Modern high-rise buildings and trees can be seen in the background.

A Bolt rider, cycling through London

Through the E-Bike Charter, London SLCs will continue to work with operators, local authorities, and blind and partially sighted people to help make London’s streets safer and more accessible for everyone.

Learn more about London Sight Loss Councils E-Bike Charter

Join us

Passionate about making a difference? Want to influence positive change? Our Sight Loss Councils, led by blind and partially sighted volunteers, are recruiting new members. Join us today! 

We use our lived experience to create positive change for others. Together, we tackle local issues and work with businesses and service providers to improve the accessibility of their services. 

Join us to help ensure visually impaired people in your area can live the lives they want to lead. 

Join us

Publication date: 11 August 2026

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