- Image
In March 2023, the Department for Transport announced rules that will require almost every local bus or coach service to provide audible announcements and visual displays identifying the route and direction, each upcoming stop, and the beginning of any diversions.
Clear audible and visible information will also benefit non-disabled people, helping those who are travelling on an unfamiliar bus route, and giving passengers confidence that they will not be left stranded at the wrong stop late at night. To ensure the information provides real-life benefits, the Department for Transport has worked closely with disabled passengers, user groups and the bus and coach sector, whilst giving operators the flexibility to choose solutions suitable for their services.
The Department for Transport is supporting industry to upgrade their vehicles, with £4.65 million in funding for the smallest bus operators. RTIG Inform is working with the Department and is running a funding competition for small operators to help with the cost of the equipment. We have been receiving applications and awarding grants for small operator since April 2024 for grants, a recent pause in accepting applications will come to and end on 13 February and new applications will be accepted again, with a focus on assisting rail replacement operators.
If you are a small operator, with 20 of fewer coaches, were providing rail replacement services in April 2024 and have continued to do so then you may be eligible for a grant to assist with the cost of complying with the regulations.
To find out more and to apply for a grant visit https://rtig.org.uk/aig.