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Over the coming weeks we will be gathering the experiences of people who are deaf or have hearing loss as part of an exciting new research project. The project is being generously funded by the Motability Foundation.
Public transport is a vital part of everyday life, but we know that people who are deaf or have hearing loss face challenges when travelling a lot of the time.
From inaccessible audio announcements, to a lack of deaf awareness amongst staff, to no signed information for BSL users – these barriers can lead to stress, missed journeys and a lack of confidence using public transport independently.
Gathering in-depth insights from people who are deaf or have hearing loss across the UK will help us to identify the key issues our communities face, test out technology, and develop recommendations to improve accessibility.
This research will be the most in-depth of its kind, involving surveys, travel diaries and focus groups with people who are deaf or have hearing loss who regularly use public transport.
Throughout the 18-month project, an advisory board made up of people with lived experience will help shape the research. (More information on how you can get involved is provided below.)
“Public transport should be accessible for everyone, but for many people who are deaf or have hearing loss, that’s simply not the case. This research will give us the evidence we need to push for meaningful change.”
“RNID will use the findings to work with transport providers, policy makers and technology companies as part of our drive to make everyday services accessible.”
Victoria Boelman, Director of Insight and Policy at RNID
Get involved
Join our advisory board
Are you deaf or have hearing loss and use public transport? Then we want to hear from you. Your experiences are vital in helping us shape this important research project.
We’re looking for 6-8 people to join our advisory board. Your input will ensure our research is accessible and accurately reflects the diverse experiences of people who are deaf or have hearing loss.
Sign up for future research updates
Want to stay up to date on future research or take part in upcoming projects?
Sign up for our research panel to receive updates and information on how to get involved.