Three busy Northern railway stations to be transformed into autism friendly hubs

Manchester Victoria Station

Three busy Northern railway stations are to be transformed into autism friendly hubs.

The three stations - Manchester Victoria, Leeds, and Manchester Oxford Road – are among the busiest in the north of England and can be overwhelming for people with autism.

Two of the three stations, Manchester Victoria and Leeds, are linked to the Rochdale borough with direct services.

There are around 700,000 autistic children and adults in the UK, who can struggle in public places such as stations and trains. Not only can busy railway stations become overwhelming for autistic people, they can also be anxious about unexpected changes, such as transport delays.

The 12-month programme will include colleague engagement and training for Northern staff who work at the stations. Staff will be taught how they can deliver the best possible experience and support for autistic customers and others with hidden needs.

Mark Powles, Commercial and Customer Director at Northern, said: “We are proud to be working with Specialist Autism Services to support those in our communities to use our trains and stations with confidence.

“We want to make our trains – and our wider network – as accessible as possible, and this programme is the next step in the journey to deliver a Northern that works for everyone and makes a positive difference.”

Detailed line guides are offered for families to download and help them prepare for rail journeys.

The guides cover key travel information about the stations, trains and family-friendly businesses along the line, many of whom have autism-friendly sessions. Activity books are available for young adults and children.

For more information and to view resources please click here.