Introduction
Getting out and about takes extra planning for families with additional needs. You may need to plan how you will travel and check what facilities are available. We provide information about travel within Somerset and beyond.
Public transport can feel worrying, but you can take steps to make your journey more accessible.
Planning your route
- Think Travel is a journey planner for Somerset. Use it to find accessible routes, including step-free options.
- Community Transport Schemes offer travel for individuals and groups. Some provide door-to-door services. Independent charities and organisations run these services.
- Slinky Bus is an accessible service from Somerset Council. It supports people who cannot use regular public transport.
- Google Street View helps you plan your route. Use it to check step-free access and identify landmarks before you travel.
Checking facilities available
You can find information about accessible facilities at train stations and on buses in each operator’s accessibility guide. You can find links for Somerset operators in the additional information section.
Accessing support on route
Better Journey Cards help you tell the bus driver that you have a disability and explain the support you need.
Passenger Assist is available when travelling by train. It can include:
- help finding your way around the station
- support boarding the train
- meeting you at your train and taking you to your next train or the exit
- other support for your needs
You can also request this support using the Passenger Assistance app. Find more information about station accessibility on the Network Rail website.
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower lets you share that you have a non-visible disability or condition. It shows you may need extra help, understanding, or more time. This scheme is recognised worldwide.
Help with costs
You can get help with travel costs through schemes such as the Disabled Persons Railcard, or Motability or Concessionary Bus Pass.
The Blue Badge Scheme helps people with mobility difficulties or non-visible disabilities, including autism and mental health conditions, park closer to their destination. Parking is often free.
Checking accessibility of venues before you arrive
To find more information about personal travel or changing areas, see the guidance on accessible toilets and changing places. This explains what to look for and where to find them in Somerset.
Specialist wheelchairs and all-terrain mobility scooters can help you get around. Accessible Countryside for Everyone (ACE) lists manufacturers of these chairs.
You can find tramper off-road mobility hire schemes on the Countryside Mobility website. Trampers suit people who find walking long distances or hills difficult, or who have limited mobility. You do not need a Blue Badge or a disability registration to use one.
You can check how accessible a venue is in several ways. In the find SEND services directory, you can filter services by wheelchair access. Euan’s Guide shares access information written by disabled people. You can also use AccessAble and the Rough Guide to Accessible Britain.
Some Somerset venues take part in Ollie the Flamingo They receive autism awareness information and make changes to create a more relaxed experience for families.