Will the Cabinet Secretary provide an update on what steps the Welsh Government is taking to ensure that all trains in Wales are accessible to people with disabilities?
We have invested £800 million in brand new fleets which have improved accessibility features compared to the trains they are replacing. These include dedicated wheelchair spaces and new high quality visual and verbal passenger information systems. On the Core Valley Lines, where we own and control the rail infrastructure as well as the rail services, we are delivering level boarding at all stations benefitting all passengers.
In addition, Transport for Wales offer Assisted Travel supporting passengers to travel independently on the railway which includes guidance in stations and assistance to get on and off the train where needed. They also support the “Orange Wallet” scheme which is for anyone who may find it difficult to communicate their needs when travelling on public transport and who would like support to communicate with staff when travelling. The Orange Wallet can be used by anyone with a hidden disability who may like to communicate with staff non-verbally.