Alstom & Manchester’s Accessible Rail: City Skills Course Insights

Manchester’s City Skills course, supported by Alstom, boosted independence for individuals with spinal injuries using **accessible public transport**. Participants gained valuable skills and insights.

Alstom & Manchester’s Accessible Rail: City Skills Course Insights
October 3, 2025 1:54 am
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Introduction

Back Up, Alstom, and Manchester transport operators collaborated to deliver a City Skills course in Manchester, helping individuals with spinal cord injuries travel with confidence and independence. The course took place from Monday 1 to Saturday 6 September 2025.

The City Skills Course

Course Overview

The City Skills course, a five-day residential program, was designed to help participants build confidence and independence when using public transport in urban environments. The course included exploring public transport options and participating in various activities. Additionally, participants shared their experiences with transport providers regarding accessibility.

Transport Focus Day

A special Transport Focus Day was incorporated into the course, allowing participants to travel by train and bus. During this day, they met with transport operators to discuss what accessibility features work well, what needs improvement, and how the industry can better accommodate disabled passengers.

Alstom’s Support

Alstom supported the City Skills course through its Community Project Fund, which funds initiatives across the UK and Ireland that aim to provide social and environmental value. Gaynor Stewart, Head of Customer Service Delivery at Alstom, emphasized the company’s commitment to accessible transport and empowering individuals with spinal cord injuries.

Skills and Adaptations

Participants learned practical skills, including navigating stations and boarding trains safely. They also observed adaptations such as step-free access, improved staff training, accessible toilets, and clearer passenger information. These experiences aimed to prepare participants for future travel and increase their confidence in everyday journeys.

Accessibility Features in Greater Manchester

Bus Accessibility

All buses in Greater Manchester meet legal accessibility standards. New zero-emission electric buses include two wheelchair spaces, audiovisual announcements, and a hearing induction loop. Upgrades to other buses in the region are ongoing.

Tram Accessibility

All trams and tram stops are accessible for wheelchair users. Authorities are working with rail companies and the Government to improve step-free access at railway stations across Greater Manchester.

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Conclusion

The Manchester City Skills course, held from Monday 1 to Saturday 6 September 2025, equipped participants with skills and experiences to enhance their independence when using public transport. The course was supported by Alstom and Manchester transport operators, providing valuable opportunities for participants to engage with transport providers and share their experiences.

Company Summary

Alstom: Alstom supported the Manchester City Skills course through its Community Project Fund, focusing on initiatives that deliver social and environmental value in local communities. Gaynor Stewart is the Head of Customer Service Delivery at Alstom.

Back Up: Back Up, a national spinal cord injury charity, partnered with Alstom and Manchester transport operators to deliver the City Skills course. Melanie Burnside is the Services Manager at Back Up.

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