Today, we’ve released findings from focus groups conducted to inform our published report, Invisible Barriers, which explores the travel experiences of disabled people across all modes of transport—including walking, wheeling, and cycling.
Invisible Barriers – Focus Group – National Centre for Accessible Transport
The discussions revealed a troubling reality: a minority of people who do not behave considerately have a significant negative impact on disabled travellers. Key insights include:
- Limited understanding of disability among the public and transport staff
- Instances of abuse towards disabled passengers
- Negative attitudes shaped by politics and media portrayals
One participant highlighted the damaging role of media, stating:
“I think one of the biggest problems we all face right now is the fact that the media are portraying disabled people as scroungers“.
Such behaviours—from disbelief to disrespect—make travel difficult or even impossible for many disabled people.
What’s next?
Meaningful change requires co-producing solutions with disabled people, sharing power in decision-making and design.
Content warning: The report includes accounts of verbal and physical abuse. If you need support after reading, please visit RiDC’s Get Support page here.
Upcoming event:
A date for your diary: On Thursday 20th November at 11:30am we will be holding a webinar to discuss these findings and explore ways to improve disabled people’s travel experiences. Keep an eye on this site and our social channels for registration details, or contact us at info@ncat.uk for more information.
*The Focus Groups contributed insights to our research project on ‘Invisible Barriers’. To read the full report and the recommendations we made for positive interventions see the ncat website here:
