McGill’s drivers learn from sight-loss passengers

McGill’s Buses drivers in Renfrewshire met with supporters of RNIB Scotland to take part in an exercise to improve their understanding of the difficulties experienced by blind and partially sighted passengers.

Drivers at Johnstone Depot had an opportunity to wear glasses that simulate different eye conditions to experience first-hand what some of their customers encounter when trying to hail a bus, buy a ticket and board.

During the “Swap with Me” event, RNIB (Royal National Institute of Blind People) representatives explained the challenges they face and how operators can make bus travel more accessible. They also had chance to sit in the driver’s cabin to try to understand the issues they might face.

Neil Dryden, HR Training and Recruitment Director for McGill’s Buses, says: “The Swap with Me event has been a great opportunity for our team to learn more about the diverse needs of our customers with visual impairments.  

“We’re excited to continue working with RNIB Scotland to host regular training events across the McGill’s Bus Group, building on our training, making our buses more accessible and improving our customer experience for all.”

Georgea Strachan, an RNIB Scotland supporter who took part in the event, adds: “I really liked how conversational and informal it was, because it allowed the drivers to talk honestly about their own perspectives, as well as us talking about things we find difficult when taking the bus. 

“It was very isolating sitting the driver’s cabin, you’re completely sealed in – there’s only a small hole for you to help someone guide their hand towards the card machine, so I can see why it might be awkward for drivers. 

 “I hope that the drivers understand that blindness isn’t black and white, it is a spectrum. I don’t want them to be scared of all this information we’ve given them – just to use it in their training, and going forward to be more aware, and to help people in the future and keep them safe.”

RNIB has previously campaigned for more accessible transport for blind and partially sighted passengers.