EMR officially opens new Assisted Travel Lounge at Sheffield Station
- Lounge provides focal point for customers who require assistance
- Designed to be spacious and relaxing
- Includes accessible seating with integrated charging points and generous space for wheelchair users
East Midlands Railway (EMR), which is operated by Transport UK, has today officially opened a new Assisted Travel Lounge at Sheffield Station, providing a calm, welcoming and fully accessible space for customers who need extra support when travelling by rail.
Located within the station concourse, the Sheffield Assisted Travel Lounge offers a clearly defined waiting space designed specifically for customers requiring assistance.
The lounge includes accessible seating with integrated charging points, generous space for wheelchair users and carefully placed planters and artificial greenery to create a calm and reassuring environment.
Artwork inspired by the Sheffield Winter Gardens has been incorporated into the design and additional features include a help point totem and a dog water bowl for assistance dogs.
The lounge has been designed following engagement with EMR’s Accessibility & Inclusion Panel, ensuring that the needs and experiences of disabled customers and those requiring assistance were central to its development.
The new lounge builds on the success of EMR’s Assisted Travel Lounge at Derby Station - which was opened in December.
Philippa Cresswell, Customer Experience Director at East Midlands Railway, said: "The opening of the Assisted Travel Lounge at Sheffield, follows in the footsteps of Derby station's lounge, and is another important step in making our railway more inclusive.
"We want every customer to feel confident, comfortable and supported when travelling with us, and this new space provides a dedicated environment where customers can wait, recharge and receive assistance in comfort."
How to book Passenger Assistance
Passenger Assist is a UK-wide service that allows customers to book help on any train or at any station. Using the service means EMR is aware of when customers are travelling, where they are seated, and any connections they need to make.
When travelling with East Midlands Railway, customers can book assistance up to two hours before travel. EMR recommends booking in advance where possible, but if customers are unable to do so, EMR will always be there on the day to help.