Petition Launched to Save Railway Station Ticket Offices
A petition has been launched opposing the proposed closure of railway ticket offices at many stations including Teddington as revealed by Teddington Town earlier this week.
The petition was launched by Chrissy Augustus and has already attracted 3220 signatures.
She says: “I am deeply troubled by the proposed closure of railway ticket offices. I have started this petition to stop the closure because of what it would mean especially for disabled passengers, but for all of us who have or might ever need help in a train station – ticket offices are a lifeline.
“My husband works in a ticket office. The closure of ticket offices would not only jeopardise the livelihoods of hardworking individuals like my husband but also severely impact our entire community.
“Whether you need advice on routes, fares, platform locations or you just need help – staff at ticket offices provide the vital human connection that people need, especially in emergencies. Travelling can be incredibly stressful – especially if you are elderly, disabled, neurodiverse or speak english as a second language.
“Without the support of staff, millions of people will be completely unable to use the rail network. Millions of people across the UK cannot use or do not have access to smartphones or computers and only have access to cash – many online ticket services don’t even have the wheelchair discount listed. This will isolate people, restricting them to their homes, and prevent them traveling all together.
“It is not just about tickets – staff at ticket offices are often the only point of contact for disabled people arriving at a station who need assistance – they help carry luggage, provide information and advice, deploy ramps, take cash payments and unlock toilets – all of which are the difference between leaving the house and not, for so many people, disabled or otherwise.
“Let us stand together in preserving the accessibility and safety of our railways by protecting these vital ticket offices. Sign this petition today to ensure that our voices are heard loud and clear – let’s save our railway ticket offices!
“Thank you for your support in safeguarding the future of accessible transportation for all.”
You can sign the petition here: Petition · Save Our Railway Ticket Offices! · Change.org
