Navigating the station environment with Great Western Railway (GWR) and Widgit Symbols

Created with the station environment in mind, these symbolised guides cover a number of scenarios, including stations with / without a booking office, gateline, lift, and even vending machine, as well as those stations with request stops.

Available to download on the Passenger Assist page of the GWR website, the resources form part of the network’s wider goal of delivering accessible experiences for customers, often with hidden disabilities, requiring further guidance when navigating the station.

'The introduction of Widgit station guides marks a step forward in us making rail travel more accessible and inclusive. We hope these guides will empower all our passengers, especially those with communication or learning needs to travel with greater confidence and independence. By providing clear, easy-to-understand information through symbol-friendly means, Widgit guides support our ongoing commitment to ensuring everyone can enjoy access to rail travel, irrespective of their accessibility needs.'

- Coral Thomas, Accessibility Mentor, GWR

Whether scanning a travel card, opening a tram door or requesting additional time to board and exit in advance of their next trip, every stage of the journey is covered – with Widgit symbols designed to help passengers navigate the trams smoothly and safely.

With their Accessible Travel Policy, Good to Know advice, Rail Access Map, and other useful downloads also available to view on their Passenger Assist page, GWR join Nottingham Express Transit (NET) as one of the first transport networks in the UK to incorporate symbolised communication as part of their service.

'It’s fantastic to see networks like GWR prioritise accessible experiences for their passengers, and we’re delighted to play a role in helping individuals of all abilities gain the confidence to navigate busy everyday settings like the train station.'

- Rebecca Lynch, Global Symbol and Education Specialist, Widgit

From Penzance to London Paddington, networks like GWR make it possible to embrace adventure and discover more by exploring the UK by train. With Widgit Symbols now part of that journey, we’re excited to see where symbolised communication may take us next on our travels.