LNER has become the first rail operator in the UK to trial sign language videos on its departure information screens.
Several scenes at Doncaster Railway station now display videos translating updates into British Sign Language (BSL), including the departure time of services, the train operator, destination, calling points and platform number.
Any changes to departure times or platforms will also be detailed via sign languages videos, as will updates in the event of delays or cancellations.
LNER is working with Doncaster Deaf Trust and Communication Specialist College Doncaster on the project, with the trial set to run throughout December.
The operator said that if the trial proves successful it will look to introduce integrated BSL videos on to further screens across its network.
Earlier this month British Airways announced a new partnership with Signcode to enable customers to access key travel information in signed video form, including the carrier’s onboard safety briefing.
BA partners with Signcode to improve accessibility for deaf and hard-of-hearing customers
Commenting on the news Mark Moaby, acting chief digital and innovation officer at LNER, said:
“Our customers are at the heart of everything we do here at LNER. We are committed to making travel more accessible so everyone can enjoy the best possible experience when travelling with us.
“We’re delighted to be trialling this innovative technology. The live test at Doncaster is the culmination of the drive and combined vision that D/deaf customers should be able to access information about train services in the same place as hearing customers.”
To read our recent feature on what is being done to improve accessibility for business travellers, see:
