Card scheme which increases bus accessibility launched by Pulhams

A scheme which provides increased accessibility to public transport has been launched on services in Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire.

Helping Hand has been successful for both the Oxford Bus Company and Thames Travel, with sister company Pulhams now making use of the initiative.

The scheme sees passengers able to claim a free card, which carries a brief written instruction for bus drivers and can be shown when boarding a vehicle.

There are 12 variants of the cards, which cover deafness, visual impairment, or simply to advise the driver to allow the passenger extra time to take their seat before pulling away from the stop.

The scheme was launched on Pulhams services in Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire on Friday 20th February.

Luke Marion, Managing Director of Pulhams, said: “With the expansion and growth of Pulhams in recent years, and a series of new routes too, it felt like the right time to deliver the Helping Hand scheme via the network.

“It’s proven to be a popular and useful initiative for both the Oxford Bus Company and Thames Travel, and reinforces our commitment to providing accessible transport for all.

“There is no charge to obtaining a Helping Hand card, which allows our drivers to be made aware of a customer’s needs or requirements without the passengers having to verbally communicate it.”

This makes the card particularly useful for customers with hidden disabilities. The reverse of the card meanwhile can display emergency contact details. This is optional but can provide assurance and instil confidence that if needed, someone can be called for help, making it especially relevant for those living with Alzheimer’s, dementia or epilepsy.

Helping Hand is also being used in shops, taxis and leisure destinations such as cinemas. Please note the cards are not a permit for free travel.

Pulhams, which originally transported passengers and goods by horse and cart, was founded in 1880 by the Pulham family. It operates bus, coach and school transport services across the Cotswolds and surrounding areas.

In recent months, Pulhams has partnered with Guide Dogs to offer volunteer puppy raisers free travel across its services. It also launched a Chatty Bus initiative to help combat loneliness and isolation in the community, allowing passengers the chance to talk, connect and feel heard.

To apply for a Helping Hand card, please contact Pulhams via info@pulhams.co.uk or 01451 820369.