Trailblazers Go Undercover To Test Public Transport, Muscular Dystrophy Campaign

Main Category: Muscular Dystrophy / ALS
Article Date: 27 Jan 2009 - 6:00 PDT

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On 27 January more than 100 young disabled campaigners from all over the UK embarked on an undercover investigation into the state of our nation's public transport system.

The mystery commuter study is the first campaign being organised by the Trailblazers - the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign's nationwide network of 16 to 30-year-olds fighting for the rights of young disabled people.

The decision to probe public transport was taken following a number of negative incidents experienced by the Trailblazers when using public transport. These have included young wheelchair users getting stuck on buses, broken ramps and buzzers as well as being bullied out of seating by fellow passengers.

Over the coming months the 120 young campaigners will be documenting their journeys and completing surveys every time they make a trip on public transport. The Trailblazers will be using their blogs on the newly launched Trailblazers website www.muscular-dystrophy.org/trailblazers to record their experiences. The results of the undercover investigation will be revealed in a report published in the spring.

Trailblazer Ambassador, 20-year-old Judith Merry, from Keele, who has congenital muscular dystrophy, said:

"So many times I've been denied access on public transport because of my condition. Most people find it is easy to get around and be independent but when you have a disability simple tasks like this can be extremely difficult.

"Whether it's buses, trains or tubes, there's always some kind of problem. I know I'm not the only one who's experienced this.

"I'm so excited about this project - the very first investigation from the Trailblazers network. I hope that by joining forces with other young disabled campaigners from across the UK we'll have a real impact."

Commenting on the undercover study, Chief Executive of the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign, Philip Butcher, said:

"Many people with muscle disease feel that our public transport system is simply not fit for purpose. This study and campaign will put it under the spotlight.

"I hope that the findings will help boost independence and improve the quality of life for all people living with muscle disease.

"It's fantastic that young people are being given the opportunity to see their ideas make a difference and have an impact in their local communities.

Find out more about the Trailblazers campaign http://www.muscular-dystrophy.org/trailblazers

Muscular Dystrophy Campaign