Media Release
For immediate release: Wednesday 17 June 2009

Bus drivers equipped for new accessible buses

Drivers of the new Bay Hopper fleet will be well equipped for passengers with physical limitations after they complete their disability awareness training this month.

The course, which has been tailored specifically for bus drivers, is provided by the CCS Disability Action Group and coordinated by BOP Access Coordinator, Mandy Gudgeon.

“It’s an interactive course where particular questions staff may have are answered, general aspects of disabilities are explained and usually the participants would have some examples to draw on too.

“The course usually starts off with a section on 'attitudes and myths’ and this can often be an eye opener for folk,” Ms Gudgeon said

The training also involves a practical session for the drivers where they may be shown how to secure wheelchairs to the floor of the bus, differences between manoeuvring manual and electric wheelchairs, walking frames and prams.

Environment Bay of Plenty Transport Committee Chairman Andrew von Dadelszen said he was pleased to be providing for people who have disabilities and are less mobile.

“One of the greatest benefits of the new contract is the new super low-floor buses that will enable greater comfort for all and increased accessibility for parents with buggies, people in wheelchairs and people who are less mobile.”

Darryl Bellamy of Go Bus Transport said it was a good investment for them. “It makes sense to equip our drivers with training that will be beneficial to all passengers in the long run.”

All 54 drivers will undergo the disability awareness training as well as some management staff.

Environment Bay of Plenty is set to launch their new fleet of super low-floor Bay Hopper buses when the contract officially changes hands on 29 June.

ENDS

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