However 73% of the people we spoke with said that transport is a barrier. 93% said that travel training would lead to increased independence and freedom for them.
We are delivering a training programme to help you feel confident travelling independently, or with a travel buddy, across Cumbria.
Our Independent Travel Training is a brand new service that has been funded by the Motability Foundation.
Working alongside Your Voice Counts, Adapt North East, Bridge Creative, Darlington Association on Disability and Skills for People, we are increasing the opportunities for people with learning disabilities to enjoy and benefit from the ability to travel.
Available to people across Cumbria, participants will gain confidence on:
Even in 2025, public transport isn't completely accessible for people with a learning disability.
We will be using the shared knowledge and experience across our partnership to launch and support Travel Champions.
Travel Champions will co-design a quality checking framework for public transport. They will be auditing services regarding:
The results and recommendations would then be shared with local transport leads to inform of joint solutions that could be implemented.
Yes. We tailor our training programme, support, and resources to meet the needs of every person.
When you enroll onto the training programme we do a 'travel audit' with you. We will look at your needs and make an action plan for you, the training programme is tailored to this plan.
Travel Champions are a team of individuals who are autistic or have a learning disability. Their focus will be to raise awareness on the Independent Travel Training, as well as planning and delivering workshops around the importance of travelling for those with a learning disability.
They will visit community groups and other organisations across Cumbria to share the work they are doing, and gather views and experiences from people who may be interested in this work.
Are you friendly, patient and love being out and about? As a Travel Buddy, you'll support someone to build confidence using public transport so they can travel independently.
Many people in our community want to get out more. Whether that's travelling to college, work or to meet friends- but they don't feel confident navigating public transport alone. This is where the Travel Buddies come in.
By volunteering, you'll:
You don't need to be a transport expert, you just need to be reliable, supportive and keen to help others.
If you'd like to find out more about how you can get involved, please fill out the form below and a member of our team will be in touch.