In this episode, host Deepa Thomas-Sutcliffe spotlights the inspirational journey of Nathaniel Yates, a train safety access campaigner whose personal experience with inaccessible train stations in Manchester spurred them into action. After a fall in 2013 and subsequent investigation into the city's train station accessibility, Nathaniel started a petition and raised awareness through videos and panels, gaining the support of Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham.
Nathaniel highlights the challenges and successes of the GMR Rail Safety Access campaign, including making specific stations accessible. His relentless efforts have not only led to significantimprovements but also inspired public awareness and support.
Did you know:
· An accessible railway station is a station that removes physical barriers to access.
· These may include providing keys to locked accessible toilets, marked drop off zones for Blue Badge holders, accessible ticket machines, step-free access or induction loops.
· Currently, fewer than Manchester’s train stations are accessible to those with mobility issues or wheelchairs users.
Key resource:
GMR Rail Accessibility Campaign
Time stamps of key moments in the podcast episode & transcript:
(01:02) Meet Nathaniel Yates: Rail Safety Advocate
(01:43) Nathaniel's Journey Begins
(03:10) Campaign Milestones and Challenges
(05:16) Impact and Recognition
(06:20) Overcoming Obstacles
(09:53) Advice for Aspiring Campaigners
(11:25) Signature Questions
Listen to the episode and read the transcript on https://www.meetthemancunian.co.uk/
#SocialImpact #StationAccessibility#Inclusion #Community #Manchester #SpiritOfMcr25 #GM #podcast #NonProfit
