Public transport

Public transport can be convenient, cost effective and environmentally friendly. For deaf children and young people, there are extra things to think about. Take a look at our advice to make sure your journey is as smooth as possible.

Special assistance

All rail companies in the UK are legally required to offer special assistance to deaf and disabled passengers. This also includes the Transport for London (TfL) network. 

This may include things like assisting you with:

• finding and boarding your train
• showing you to your seat
• transferring between trains
• navigating the station

Special assistance can be booked in advance when you buy your ticket or through the Passenger Assistance app or website. Even if you do not book in advance, staff should still provide special assistance if you request it.

Find out more about booking special assistance on trains.

Saving money on fares

Deaf people are eligible for free or discounted travel through a number of schemes. Take a look at our Discounts and grants page for more information.

Information and updates on your journey

However you are travelling, you should be able to access information about your journey. There are lots of ways to find out updates, such as platform announcements, delays and cancellations:

• Many train and bus stations, as well as some taxis, have loop systems installed for users of hearing aids and implants. This includes stations on the Transport for London (TfL) network. They allow you to hear announcements clearly by sending them directly to your hearing technology.
• Most stations will usually have digital screens showing real-time information about your journey. Many cities and towns have also installed digital update screens at bus stops.
• Many stations and train companies are now including announcements in sign language. For example, stations managed by LNER now include an AI-generated BSL interpreter on digital departure screens. Meanwhile, Northern are trialling on-screen sign language announcements on their trains.
• For real-time updates about your journey on your smartphone, download apps such as Bus Checker, National Rail, TfL Go, Realtime Trains and apps for transport companies in your local area.