A thousand volunteers are being sought to help Transport for London test a new badge which would help disabled bus and Tube passengers alert fellow passengers of their need for a seat.
Similar to the existing and popular Baby on Board badges, the new “please offer me a seat” badges would be the first of their kind in Europe.
The trial will assess how Londoners respond to the cards and also the difference they make to participants’ ability to get a seat across the TfL network.
Announcing the trial, Mayor Sadiq Khan said: “We hope that these new blue badges can make a real difference to those who find it difficult to get a seat when they need one, particularly those with hidden disabilities.
“Everyone who travels around London knows about the success of the Baby on Board badges.
“I want Londoners to embrace our new trial and help these blue badges become as instantly-recognisable, giving confidence to those wearing them on public transport across London.”
Mike Brown, London’s Transport Commissioner, added: “We appreciate that asking for a seat on public transport can sometimes be difficult, particularly for customers who have hidden disabilities or conditions.
“That is why we are launching this trial, and if it is successful we will work closely with older and disabled people’s organisations to develop the final product.
“I hope that Londoners help make the trial a success and offer their seat to someone with one of the badges or cards who may be in need.”
Anyone wishing to take part can get in touch with research agency 2CV, who are working with TfL on the trial, at tfltrial@2cv.com
