Meet the Bus Day in Bristol
Saturday 30 April 10:00am - 1:00pm
Lawrence Hill Depot, Easton, Bristol BS5 0EX
People who are blind or partially sighted, along with their families and friends, are invited to find out more about access and safety when travelling on buses in Bristol.
On Saturday, 30 April, First Bus West of England and Bristol Sight Loss Council will host a ‘Meet the Bus’ event to give people who live with a visual impairment the chance to meet the team, learn more about different bus models, and understand the support that drivers can provide on-board.
People will be able to get on and off and explore a bus while it is not moving. First staff, including drivers, trainers and depot managers, will be there to answer questions and hear from blind and partially-sighted people what they need to make travelling on a bus accessible and safe for them.
Chris Hanson, Operations Director at First West of England, said:
“Our number one priority is that every customer feels safe and comfortable when travelling on our buses. Public transport can present challenges for those travelling with a disability, and First West of England is keen to ensure that all customers know how they can access our services.
“If you have a visual impairment or know a friend or family member who does, we’d like to welcome you to our bus depot at Lawrence Hill on Saturday 30 April between 10am to 1pm where our staff will be able to take you around the buses and talk through any queries you may have.”
First Bus’ drivers are fully trained to support disabled access needs when operating the buses.
Chris added: “If there’s anything we can do to improve our guidance on travelling with a visual impairment for both customers and drivers alike – come along to our ‘Meet the Bus’ day and let us know.”
First West of England’s ‘Meet the Bus Day’ is supported by Bristol Sight Loss Council, Guide Dogs, the Macular Society and the Royal National Institute of Blind People.
Alun Davies, Engagement Manager at the sight Loss Council, said:
“It is great that First West of England has been able to set up this day, and we hope for many more.
“People who are blind and partially-sighted are very dependent on buses, and good support from First Bus staff makes a huge difference to them having an enjoyable and safe journey.”
First’s ‘Meet the Bus’ runs from 10am to 1pm at Lawrence Hill Depot, with parking available and bus services 6, 7, 35, 42, 43, 44 and 45 stopping nearby at Lawrence Hill, Croydon Street stop.