New rules for using mobility scooters on Metro If you use a mobility scooter on Metro you must at all times be accompanied by an appropriate companion, able to guide you safely on and off the train. This rule has been introduced for the safety of all Metro passengers, following recent incidents at stations where scooter users have been injured. This rule does not apply to electric wheelchairs, where existing regulations and restrictions will continue to apply. If you need assistance to undertake your journey on Metro you should book this 24hrs in advance by phoning 0191 203 3314. Travelling on Metro Metro is committed to making travel easier, especially for people whose mobility is impaired, including those with children or pushchairs. Its policies on the provision of facilities for disabled customers are as follows. - Metro will welcome elderly and disabled customers, standard wheelchair and powered wheelchair users *, (up to a maximum width of 700mm and length of 1200mm ) and those travelling with small children, shopping or heavy luggage
- Metro will make available, specialised guidance and information to help all groups of disabled customers to plan their journeys
Facilities at stations All Metro stations are accessible by level access, ramps or lifts. Lifts vary in size but all can accommodate a wheelchair or mobility scooter as long as it is no larger than 1.4m (4 feet 7 inches long) and 0.7m (2 feet 3 inches wide). Some of the older stations that were adapted for use by Metro have ramps that are steeper than current standards. Station platforms are approximately the same height as train floors. There is however, a gap of up to 121mm (4¾ inches) and a step of up to 48mm (2 inches). This does vary from station to station. All Metro stations have Help Points. These are generally located near ticket machines and also, where appropriate, on platforms. They are clearly marked and can be used to alert Metro staff to emergencies. They can be used for enquiries or to request assistance if, for example, a lift is out of service. All Help Points also have a facility to book a taxi to collect you from the station. (If using this facility you will have to check that the vehicle that is booked is suitable for your individual needs. Nexus cannot be held responsible if accessible vehicles are not available).
Only Heworth, Gateshead, South Gosforth, Four Lane Ends and Whitley Bay stations have toilet facilities. All include an accessible toilet with a National Key Scheme (RADAR) lock. There are toilet facilities in the vicinity of a number of other Metro stations. This information is also available in the Metro Access Guide at the bottom of this page. Or for a printed booklet tel 0191 203 3207 or email access@nexus.org.uk. If you need help to undertake your journey on Metro you should book this 24 hours in advance Tel 0191 203 3314. Many Metro stations have automated departure announcements giving the destination of the next due train. Drivers also announce key stations and interchange points on board trains. The Disabled People's protection policy is currently being updated.
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