In a key step to improve passenger inclusion, London Euston has become the first railway station in the UK to provide passenger information using British Sign Language.
Across the station, 10 passenger information touchscreens have been installed and set live to provide passengers with signed information.
A further 10 are intended to be installed by the end of 2021, as well as an additional large screen beside the arrival and departure boards on the main concourse.
In total, Network Rail invested £1.1m into the project to develop the necessary software and install the British Sign Language screens at Euston station.
The touchscreens have been developed in partnership with sign language specialists, with interpreters creating a library of standard messaging as part of the screen software.
These interpreters will also work with Network Rail and the station to provide signed information for passengers as situations evolve or during periods of unexpected disruption.
It is anticipated that within an hour, this information can be converted into British Sign Language recordings and uploaded directly to the screens using 4G technology.
Loraine Martins, Network Rail’s Director of Diversity and Inclusion, said: “We understand that rail travel can be daunting for anyone with specific needs and we’re always looking at ways we can improve accessibility so everyone can travel with confidence.
“We’re really excited to have these screens installed and in action, to see the real difference they will make for passengers who use British Sign Language.
“Euston station is proud to be leading the way, and I look forward to a time in the not too distant future when screens like these will be the norm on the railway and not an exception.”
Loraine Martins will be joining us for our RTM365 Equality, Diversity & Inclusion event on June 16th. Register to attend now.
