The operator of Adelaide’s metropolitan passenger rail network has been recognised for its effort to make public transport easier for people with communication difficulties.
Keolis Downer Adelaide, which operates Adelaide Metro train services, is the second Australian heavy rail operator to be recognised with a Communications Access Symbol.
It comes after 234 staff underwent nine-months of training on how to help passengers with communications difficulties navigate the local train network.
Keolis Downer Adelaide managing director Robert Tatton-Jones says the training has given train drivers and frontline station staff the tools and skills to support passengers with language barriers and intellectual and physical disabilities.
“This includes using communication cards and vision boards showing train stations and key points of interest, along with the alphabet so the user can select letters and spell out words,” Mr Tatton-Jones said.
The accreditation was awarded by disability advocacy and support organisation Two Way Street in recognition of KD’s work to improve access and inclusion for all customers.
Two Way Street provides training and assessment for businesses and organisations seeking accreditation.
General Manager Michaela Banks says The Communication Access Symbol , which will be displayed at Adelaide Railway stations, shows an organisation is accepting and welcoming of people with communication challenges.
“The Communication Access Symbol shows an organisation is accepting and welcoming of people with communication challenges,” Ms Banks said.
Seventeen South Australian organisations currently have accreditation.
The Symbol is a blue icon with two faces showing an arrow indicating a two-way conversation.
Melbourne’s Yarra Trams and Metro Trains Melbourne received Communications Access Symbol accreditation from Scope Australia in 2019.
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