Introduction
Getting out and about can take extra planning if your family has additional needs.
You may need to think about how you will travel and what facilities are available.
We share information to help you travel in Somerset and beyond.
Public transport can feel worrying. There are ways to make your journey easier.
Planning your journey
You can use tools to help plan your route:
- Think Travel shows accessible transport routes in Somerset, including step‑free options
- Community Transport Schemes offer travel for individuals and groups. Some give door‑to‑door help
- Slinky Bus is an accessible service for people who cannot use regular buses
- Google Street View helps you check routes and identify guiding landmarks before you travel
Check facilities before you go
You can look up what facilities are available before your journey.
Transport providers share accessibility guides. These give details about things like step‑free access and support on buses or trains. Find more in ‘Other information’.
Get support during your journey
There is support to help you travel:
- Better Journey Cards tell the bus driver what extra help you may need
- Passenger Assist helps when travelling by train, such as:
- finding your way around the station
- getting on and off the train
- support between trains
You can book this help in advance or use an app.
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower lets others know you may need more time, help or understanding.
Help with travel costs
You may be able to get support with costs, such as:
A Blue Badge can help you park closer to where you need to go. Parking is often free.
You may be able to get a Blue Badge if you have:
- physical difficulties with walking or moving around
- non-visible needs, such as autism, learning disabilities, or mental health needs that affect how you travel
Check places are accessible
It can help to check a place before you visit. Find out more about accessible toilets and changing places.
You can also use
Some places in Somerset also take part in Ollie the Flamingo. These places aim to be more autism‑friendly.
Equipment to help you get around
Some equipment can make trips easier, such as:
- wheelchairs
- all‑terrain mobility scooters
You can hire scooters in urban areas through Shop Mobility. You can hire off‑road mobility scooters, called trampers, through Countryside Mobility.
These can help if you find walking long distances or hills difficult. You do not need a Blue Badge to use one.