Disability Equality Scotland has praised national bus operator First Bus for fast-tracking technology which will enable wheelchair users in Edinburgh to track accessible spaces on their local bus services in ‘real-time’.
The mobile app update, available now, enables customers across the city to view available wheelchair spaces across its fleet. This important innovation makes bus travel easier by tracking wheelchair capacity through an icon that moves across a virtual map.
The update forms part of a fast-tracked investment in the app which has seen First become the first UK bus operator to not only allow bus passengers to live track the location of their next bus, but also show its capacity in ‘real time’.
Emma Scott, Operations Manager at Disability Equality Scotland explained why this is such a welcome improvement for wheelchair users in the area: “We welcome the fast-tracking of the app which will give wheelchair users more confidence to use public transport during these uncertain times.
“By giving wheelchair users this information in an inclusive and accessible way, it allows them to make decisions about whether to wait or find an alternative route.”
Andrew Jarvis, Managing Director of First Bus in Scotland said “We are really proud to have been able to fast-track our recent app updates to ensure safe, informed travel during these difficult times.
“Our buses provide an essential service for our customers and we are doing all we can to support them. The app update is aligned with our longstanding pledge to improve the bus experience for our disabled passengers.”
To find out more about what First Bus is doing to support customers during Covid-19, visit https://www.firstgroup.com/help-and-support/coronavirus-information
If customers are exempt from Government face covering guidelines, First Bus have journey assistance cards available to download from https://www.firstgroup.com/help-and-support/extra-help-travel.