What is the Devon Access Wallet Scheme?

People with disabilities often find public transport difficult to use and can find the experience stressful and isolating. This can reduce their confidence to travel independently.

The Devon Access Wallet scheme has been developed to help make journeys by bus or train easier for anyone with communication difficulties, people with disabilities, deaf people and those whose first language is not English.

It will also give transport staff a better understanding of the requirements of all disabled passengers.

Devon County Council has worked in partnership with First Devon & Cornwall, First Great Western and Stagecoach Devon to devise the scheme.

How does the scheme work?

The wallet has been carefully designed with a fluorescent orange cover to let transport staff know that people carrying it may need help with their journey. Inside there are plastic inserts containing information in a written or pictorial format in order to communicate with staff.

The access wallet contains plastic pockets into which words can be placed to describe where the passenger would like to go, e.g. city centre.

In addition there may be a picture or photo to help both staff and the passenger know where they need to get off.

Other information or questions to help make the journey easier for the passenger can also be placed into the wallet. These could include:

• Single or return fare please
• Can you please let me know when we get to my stop?
• Which platform do I catch my train from?
• Emergency contact details

Who can have an access wallet?

Any person who has a disability, learning or communication difficulties, who is deaf or whose first language is not English may have an access wallet.

When can you use your access wallet?

You can use the access wallet at any time of the day, seven days a week.

Where can you use your access wallet?

You can use the access wallet on any bus service in Devon and any Great Western Railway train service.

Does the access wallet give you free or discounted travel on the bus or train?

The access wallet does not give you free or discounted travel. If you are over 60 or disabled you may be entitled to free bus travel in Devon or a Senior or Disabled Persons rail card.

If you or someone you know would like an Access Wallet please email or call us on 01392 382123.