Equity in transport is not a new issue, and in fact has enjoyed a relatively high profile over the last five to ten years, as have transport issues in general. In relation to equity, however, most energy has been directed at equity for people with a physical disability. Professionals in the traffic and transport industry are only too aware of their responsibilities in this area, and improvement in access for people with a physical disability has been marked in recent years. An aspect that has escaped the attention of the wider profession is the degree to which access for people with intellectual disabilities is addressed. Our knowledge in general about their requirements is limited and hence our provision for them minimal. This paper will address the shortcomings of modes of public and private transport, including air travel, based on observations and interaction with user groups. This paper will also discuss particular examples of appropriate and inappropriate levels of accessibility. Improvements will be suggested along with some anticipated implementation opportunities and problems. (Author/publisher) For the covering entry of this conference, please see ITRD abstract no. E205914.
Samenvatting