Train operator marks Neurodiversity Celebration Week with range of free travel aids

West Midlands Railway (WMR) is signposting its support options for neurodiverse passengers during Neurodiversity Celebration Week (March 16 to 20).

This is includes restocking its stations with free sensory packs available on request from ticket offices. Each bag contains foam ear plugs, sunglasses, fidget toys and a stress ball to help passengers manage sensory overload.

Journey aids rolled out across network

Journey planner notepads are also being introduced across WMR’s network after a successful trial. 

Ticket office staff can use the pads to write down journey information for passengers who prefer paper-based communication. Each page includes details on booking passenger assistance, customer relations contacts and social media handles.

Travel Assistance Cards are also available free of charge from stations or via WMR’s website. The cards carry a range of phrases, such as “I need help buying a ticket” and “Please be patient, I have a disability.”

Javeriah Abbas, passenger assistance delivery manager at WMR, said: “We recognise that railway stations can be a difficult environment for neurodiverse passengers, so this Neurodiversity Celebration Week, we want to raise awareness of the options available to help manage sensory overload and support communication.”