Minister for Equalities Launches Blind Companion pilot scheme

Minister for Equalities Kaukab Stewart has launched a pilot scheme that will provide free rail travel for companions of blind and partially sighted people.

The pilot will apply on all ScotRail train journeys across Scotland, starting 01 April 2025.

Ms Stewart marked the launch during an event at Anniesland Station in Glasgow, where the Minister was joined by Craig Spalding, Chief Executive of Sight Scotland and Sight Scotland Veteran.

They were also joined by representatives and campaigners from Sight Scotland Veterans and Sight Scotland, both of which have driven the successful Fair Rail Campaign.

Under this new pilot scheme, individuals holding an eye +1 National Entitlement Card (NEC) will be able to travel with a companion at no additional cost. The pilot scheme, which will run for one year, aims to make train travel more affordable and accessible for blind and partially sighted passengers by introducing a consistent, nationwide policy for free companion rail travel, aligning with existing concessionary bus and ferry travel across Scotland.

Ms Stewart said

“I am genuinely delighted to be launching this pilot, which is testament to the hard work by all those involved in the campaign to bring this about. Making rail travel more accessible and affordable for people with sight loss is an important step in helping them access communities, education, and employment.”

Claire Dickie, ScotRail Commercial Director, said:

“At ScotRail, we are committed to improving accessibility and ensuring that our services are as inclusive as possible for all customers.

“This trial initiative is an important step towards making travel easier for those who rely on assistance when using our services.”

Craig Spalding, Chief Executive of Sight Scotland and Sight Scotland Veterans, said:

“We are delighted that the Scottish Government is introducing this pilot. After over two years of campaigning, this is a significant achievement for our Fair Rail Campaign. Thanks to collaboration with ScotRail and Transport Scotland, rail travel will become more accessible and affordable for people with sight loss across Scotland.

“For many visually impaired individuals, public transport is essential, yet travelling alone is often not an option, and the cost of a companion ticket can be prohibitive. This new policy will make a real difference, supporting rehabilitation, promoting independence, and ensuring that people with vision impairments remain connected with their communities.”

Joe Tottenham, a 92-year-old army veteran from Kirkcaldy, who is supported by Sight Scotland Veterans, commented:

"I’m so proud to be part of the Fair Rail campaign led by Sight Scotland and Sight Scotland Veterans who have campaigned tirelessly on this issue. Knowing no matter where I’m going in Scotland that my companion can travel with me at no extra cost will change my life. As a blind person, having someone to help me get on and off the train is vital – I’d be lost without them."  

Colette Walker, from Glasgow, who is visually impaired and co- chair of Sight Scotland’s Policy group, added:

“This will make such a difference to me financially, as well as to my safety and quality of life.”

For more information please visit sightscotland.org.uk.

ENDS