TFI announces measures to enhance transport for passengers with invisible disabilities

Credit: Transport for Ireland

Transport for Ireland (TFI), along with Invisible Disability Ireland, has announced that it has launched the ‘Please Offer Me a Seat’ Badge and Card for people with invisible disabilities to use when using public transport.

The new badge and card will allow passengers with an invisible disability who have difficulty standing while using public transport to subtly alert fellow passengers that they would welcome being offered a seat. Some examples of invisible disabilities are fibromyalgia, autism, head injuries, chronic pain, poor balance and multiple sclerosis, along with other conditions.

The badge and card can be used on Dublin Bus, Bus Éireann, Iarnród Éireann – Irish Rail, Luas, Go-Ahead Ireland, and TFI Local Link services.

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Dominic Hannigan, Public Transport Regulation at the National Transport Authority, said: “It is important that public transport is as inclusive and accessible for people of varying abilities as possible. Public transport is for everyone and any measure that assists our passengers in feeling as comfortable as possible while using our services is welcome. I encourage passengers with hidden disabilities to contact their local public transport operator to obtain a card or badge and I hope other passengers will be understanding of those who indicate that they would appreciate being offered a seat”.

Emily Larkin, Founder and Director of Invisible Disability Ireland, said: “One in seven people in Ireland have a disability and about 80 per cent of disabilities have invisible impairments, meaning they are not immediately apparent. Invisible disabilities are no less challenging and can hinder a person’s efforts to go to school, work, socialise and more. Although people with invisible disabilities make up a large percentage of the disability population, they have little representation, awareness, understanding or support. Not only will the ‘Please Offer Me a Seat’ Badge and Card ensure that people with hidden disabilities are eligible for a seat in priority areas on public transport, I also hope that this will help raise awareness and promote a greater understanding of invisible disabilities amongst the general public”.

Sorin Costica, Head of Operations for Dublin Bus, said: “Dublin Bus is committed to providing an accessible service for each and every one of our customers. The introduction of this badge and card will make our services even more inclusive for all customers. It will give people with hidden disabilities the freedom to travel with confidence when using Dublin Bus and other public transport services”.