1. ARE OTs MISSING THE BUS? ENOTHE Conference 2007 JOHN GUITE and KYLIE HASLAM SHEFFIELD HALLAM UNIVERSITY

2. We investigated the challenges of using public transport Our Aims : To highlight the effects lack of accessibility has on quality of life and social inclusion. To raise awareness of public transport issues To highlight all people have an equal right to access public transport To recognise that every one has the right to use public transport without feeling marginalised, or discriminated against. To encourage Occupational Therapist to address these issues RATIONALE

3. Background statistics 1 in 5 people of working age in UK considered 'disabled' 70% buses inaccessible to people with disabilities 50% consider transport as main concern Disabled people travel a third less than general public as a whole 60% of the rail network is inaccessible to disabled people (Strategic Rail Authority) The Government estimates that it will cost over £100 million to make all rolling stock accessible by 2025. The cost is likely to be significantly higher however as the compliance date has been brought forward to 2020 under the Disability Bill. (http://www.drc.org.uk)

4. Disability and Social Inclusion Increased independence & empowerment Access to education, training or work opportunities Increased social inclusion Increased well being Access to public transport

5. GOJO is a nationwide campaign aimed at increasing young peoples confidence using public transport GOJO is aimed at the thousands of young people – aged between 16 and 25 - who have difficulties or fears using buses, trams and trains. (http://www.mygojo.co.uk)http://www.mygojo.co.uk

6. Some of the issues….

7. Access Good! Poor…

8. …and they dont always arrive on time Its not always easy to find the time of your bus

9. Consequences… Barriers to participating in daily life … Inability to gain/ maintain employment Inability to access education Inability to take part in social/ leisure activities Inability to keep important appointments Effects… Financial consequences Unequal opportunities Increased social isolation Effects on mental wellbeing

10. What we did? Investigated local bus companies initiatives Researched other local initiatives Meeting with local Passenger Transport Executive Spoke to local students Plan Poster presentation Prepare for article publication Plan video diary + student presentation Set up wiki on the web

11. Recommendations For Occupational Therapists to be: more aware of public transport issues active in sourcing out information and informing their clients active in addressing transport difficulties as part of therapy process more involved in working alongside public transport providers advocates for change

12. The way forward We believe that Occupational Therapy students need to recognise the importance of addressing transport issues in future practice. In doing so this will reduce the barriers faced by individuals in using public transport and create a culture of empowerment in which all individuals can participate equally in daily life.

13. ANY QUESTIONS? THANKS FOR YOU LISTENING!

14. References www.mygojo.co.uk http://www.socialinclusion.org.uk/home/index.php http://www.drc.org.uk/newsroom/key_drc_facts_and_gloss ary/transport.aspx http://www.drc.org.uk/newsroom/key_drc_facts_and_gloss ary/transport.aspx http://www.politics.co.uk/press-releases/public- services/rail/rail/drc-gojo-aims-bridge-travel-gap-on-public- transport-$473259.htm http://www.politics.co.uk/press-releases/public- services/rail/rail/drc-gojo-aims-bridge-travel-gap-on-public- transport-$473259.htm http://www.thestar.co.uk/viewarticle.aspx?sectionid=58&ar ticleid=2872424 http://www.thestar.co.uk/viewarticle.aspx?sectionid=58&ar ticleid=2872424 http://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/news/s/1007/1 007005_all_aboard_for_laughter.html http://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/news/s/1007/1 007005_all_aboard_for_laughter.html http://ourotexperience.pbwiki.com