Disability awareness

Hi All, 

On Friday 22nd of April I spent a day with the Training School incorporating disability awareness training (discussed below). Also, this was an excellent opportunity to chat to new drivers about the company, development and expectations. The training was at Colchester where Dave Snell, Driver trainer, guided 2 trainees with a small amount of driver hours through the challenging 70s route. The route from Colchester to Chelmsford is quite a task, as many of you know, moving from duel carriage way to single lanes through the Essex countryside, but the trainees did superbly well and gained in confidence throughout our journey.

The time spent with Phil, who is partially sighted, and Annette who is partially sighted and has hearing impairment was a great exercise. Both of their dogs Sula and Nan assisted them through the experience and their relationship and skill working together was inspiring. They really had an insightful knowledge which they shared very well enabling us to comprehend what it is like to undertake a journey on public transport with a disability. Both Phil and Annette explained to us that communication is the key to making the journey safe and enjoyable. They often travel throughout the Essex area and rely on all of us, to enable them to access activities and essential tasks. There are many different types of disabilities which need different support and intervention.  The more educated we are as drivers the higher our service standard will be.  Sometimes it is only a simple task that can make a huge different to someone's journey. Acting professionally and courteously whilst striving for a high standard, when putting the customer first, should be  at the forefront of our service. I am sure all the attendees will show the correct attitude to vulnerable passengers and deliver a safe and skilful service.

I have learnt so much, for example, I now know the difference between guide dog harnesses.  For supporting the sight impairment luminous green is used and for supporting sight and hearing impairment red and white squares are used.  Finally, a hearing only dog has it stated on the jacket.

Below is a picture of the course trainees alongside Annette and Sula , Phil and Nan

if you want to chat about any of the above or any other subject then please contact me via the usual channels