Red Funnel has demonstrated its commitment to creating a journey that is safe and comfortable for all passengers by championing inclusivity, through facility upgrades and staff training.
Starting with a preview of what it’s like to travel on the ferry through to making a booking, the company has updated its website to provide more detail to cater to passengers with accessibility needs. The rich content includes a step-by-step map of the passenger experience and what can be expected along the way, providing comfort and ease ahead of the journey.
The site also provides information on various discounts and support services available to passengers, including how customers can make a request to remain in their vehicles during travel.
Customers can expect thoughtful service
Once at the terminals and on board, customers can expect thoughtful service from Red Funnel team members – who have been specially trained on supporting customers with both hidden and visible disabilities.
Behind the scenes, Red Funnel is also proud to offer additional assistance via a dedicated support colleague in the role of Customer Services Specialist and Accessibility Support. The role serves to offer customers more a personalised booking experience, including support with obtaining NHS discounts, travel advice and more.
Catering for those with physical accessibility needs
For those with physical accessibility needs, Red Funnel has recently unveiled its state-of-the-art Changing Places accessible toilet facility at its Southampton Hi-Speed Terminal.
The industry-leading facility includes an adult-sized changing bench, powered overhead hoists with an adjustable pulley system, grab rails, an adjustable wash basin, and radar key access.
For additional support and information, Red Funnel has gone one step further by displaying ‘Know Your Rights’ signage across the business, together with printed handouts which are also available in brail.
‘Leader level honour
As a result of these actions, and additional process put in place by Red Funnel it has been awarded with a ‘Leader’ level honour, which is the highest award in the Government’s Inclusive Transport Leaders Scheme (ITLS).
The award showcases that Red Funnel has not only implemented significant changes, but it is also leading the way across the transport sector.
Collins: Committed to continually improving our service
CEO of Red Funnel, Fran Collins, said,
“We are delighted to be recognised as a leader in inclusivity within the transport sector. This achievement is thanks to the collaborative efforts of our team, which has worked closely with our customers to understand their needs.
“Everything we do is designed to support the needs of our passenger, from the moment a booking is made, through to our onboard facilities and up until passengers disembark ready for their onward journey.
“We are committed to continually improving our service, and there’s plenty more to come as we enhance the travel experience for all our customers.”
Highest level of accreditation possible
The ITLS is the highest level of accreditation possible, a status held by only two other transport operators in the UK.
The ITLS is managed by the Department for Transport and administered by Transport Focus, an independent watchdog organisation.
Ensuring that everyone can travel with dignity
The scheme aims to encourage transport operators to improve their services for people with disabilities and mobility challenges, ensuring that everyone can travel with dignity, independence, and ease.
Operators participating in the scheme undergo rigorous assessments of their accessibility measures, policies, and practices.
Find out more
For more information about all the ways Red Funnel is helping make ferry travel more accessible and to find out more about assistance that may be valuable to you, please visit the website.
News shared by Emma on behalf of Red Funnel. Ed
