Improving access to rail stations
First ScotRail are leading the way to provide passengers with accessible information on train station platforms in Scotland. By using RNIB React, passengers can receive audible orientation messages to help them use stations safely and independently.
How does it work?
To use the system, blind and partially sighted people carry a small trigger fob. The trigger fob sends a constant radio signal that is picked up by the RNIB React speaker unit as the person approaches. Since all of the units installed by First ScotRail are all up-to-date RNIB React (version 3) units, they can deliver additional information about a location when needed by the individual.
"Whether visiting friends and relations, taking a holiday or commuting to work, people with sight loss can face major difficulties when using public transport, especially in getting travel information. This initiative by First ScotRail is an imaginative use of technology to keep people informed. With the numbers of people with sight loss forecast to rise in the future, it is encouraging to see a major service provider meeting their customers' needs in this way." John Legg, Director of RNIB Scotland
Where are we now?
First ScotRail and Transport Scotland, the Scottish Government Department for Transport policy, have focused on unstaffed stations for this initial rollout of the system. This decision was made because they recognised that the lack of staff at these stations makes independent travel more challenging for someone with a sight problem.
So far, 47 RNIB React units have been installed in six stations near to Edinburgh and Glasgow.
The following locations currently have RNIB React available:
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Glasgow Queen Street station
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Lenzie (trigger fobs available from Deafblind Scotland Centre)
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Camelon (trigger fobs available from the Forth Valley Sensory Centre)
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Brunstane (trigger fobs available from Jewel and Esk College)
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Kirkcaldy
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Larbert
A total of 20 trigger fobs have been distributed by First ScotRail to the Forth Valley Sensory Centre at Camelon and Deafblind Scotland in Lenzie.
"We are continually looking at ways in which we can improve services for all our customers. The installation of this system will, we believe, make a real difference to visually impaired people travelling… and I'm confident it will go a long way in helping a number of customers." Patrick Nyamurundira, Access and Inclusion Manager at First ScotRail.
Who helped us?
First ScotRail also worked closely with RNIB React manufacturers SFX Technologies to install and commission the system. As key partners in the development of RNIB React, SFX Technologies have an excellent understanding of the technology used to bring about this innovative system.
MK Design provided advice on unit locations and message contents. MK Design specialise in providing accessible wayfinding and navigation solutions that are inclusive of blind and partially sighted people. Working with RNIB Scotland and Forth Valley Sensory Centre, they ensured that the system would provide the maximum benefit to local public transport users.
What the future holds
With six stations currently "live", First ScotRail have plans in place to expand the network, with Partick station under consideration. This expansion would increase the number of units installed by First Scotrail to a total of 69, making this the largest network of audible signs in the UK today.
RNIB aims to establish RNIB React as a national standard for the provision of audio information. As more cities and transport providers implement audio systems, RNIB wants to see continuity between them to enable people with sight loss to travel confidently in their local areas as well as across the UK using a single trigger fob.
What is RNIB React?
RNIB React is the talking sign system that helps people who are blind and partially sighted find their way around town centres, safely and independently. When linked to real time information signs, it can also help people decide which bus or train they want to catch.
Contact us
For more information about RNIB React, to arrange a demonstration or to discuss other ways that RNIB can help you and your customers, please get in touch.
Business Development Team
RNIB Innovation and Development
Phone 01733 37 53 45
Email busdev@rnib.org.uk