Optalis Try a Train Programme

Are you interested in giving train travel a try?

At Optalis we are offering tailored, practical support to help you become more confident using local train travel, in partnership with Great Western Railway and Southeast Communities Rail Partnership

Contact us through our Ability Travel Enquiry Form

Develop new options for independent travel through our Try a Train programme.

Learn how to travel by train, become familiar with the assistance available on board, and learn about the stations and the facilities.

Our programme is free and available to support those who might face barriers to train travel. We have extensive experience supporting people with a variety of disabilities and support needs.

How our Try a Train Workshop and Travel Training works

We work with you at your own pace, helping you to build your confidence and knowledge using trains. During our workshops we will teach you about:

  • Planning your journey, reading timetables
  • Buying tickets and accessing the platform
  • Railway safety
  • Problem solving; What to do if things change (e.g. the train is late)
  • Understanding how to navigate around the stations using signage and where to seek help

We will travel with you on a short sample journey to a destination of interest and support you to explore the facilities at your destination.

Discover freedom and greater independence through train travel.

If you would like to get support with Try a Train please contact: 0118 977 8636 or employmentservice@optalis.org

Great Western Railway Logo
Southeast Communities Rail Partnership

View our leaflet here.

Try a train workshop group photo looking at paperwork

Try a train workshops a great success

Optalis Supported Employment team have been working with people to become more confident using local train travel, in partnership with Great Western Railway & Southeast Communities Rail Partnership

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