Travelling can be tricky for people with a disability, elderly people, mums-to-be, parents carrying infants, injured people, or those less able to stand, including people with hidden disabilities and conditions.
We have introduced a badge scheme that we hope will help to make sure that these people can get a seat when they need it.
What do I do if I see someone with a badge?
If you see someone with a badge and you are sat down, please stand and offer them your seat. The law does not require passengers to give up seats, even priority seats, but we would like to encourage customers to be kind and offer their seat to those that are less able to stand.
I am less able to stand myself. Am I expected to move for badge holders?
No. We recognise that many customers who need a seat might not have a badge. We trust people to use their common sense and show kindness where they can.
Do users have to explain why they need a seat to other passengers?
No. Not everyone is comfortable with asking fellow passengers to give up a priority seat and explaining why this is necessary. The purpose of the badge is to eliminate the need to explain the reason for needing a seat.
How do I get a badge?
Call us on 0191 20 20 747 or email [email protected].
Do I need to show evidence of my condition to apply?
No. If you need a badge, we don’t plan to give you the third degree to prove that you’re in need. We trust our customers to be honest and use common sense.
What about Priority Seats?
Priority seating is already marked on most Metro trains.
Priority seating is intended for those passengers in greatest need of a seat, including people with a disability, older passengers, expectant mothers, passengers carrying infants, or those with a broken limb.
Purpose-built priority seats are normally located close to the doors, so they are more easily accessible than other seats.
Priority seats can be sat in by anyone, but should be given up for people who need them more such as those with disabilities, expectant mothers, elderly passengers or people carrying young infants.
The badges will be available alongside priority seating and are not intended to replace them.
We'd like to thank Newcastle Disability Forum for supporting us with this scheme.
