Rail Passenger Assist
Free assistance at stations and on trains across Great Britain and Northern Ireland, including help boarding, ramps, and someone to meet you.
Applies to: UK-wide. Last reviewed 1 August 2026. This is information, not legal advice; rules can differ by council and operator.
What Passenger Assist is
Passenger Assist is the national booking service run by the rail industry. Staff can meet you at the station, help you and your luggage to the train, put out a ramp, help you change trains, and meet you at your destination.
It is free, and it is available whether or not you have a Disabled Persons Railcard.
How to book
- Book through the train company you are travelling with, or through the national Passenger Assist service, by phone, online form, app or text relay.
- You can book up to 2 hours before you travel across Great Britain. Booking earlier gives staff more time to arrange ramps and staff cover.
- You can also turn up and ask. Staff will help where they can, but this is not guaranteed at unstaffed stations.
- In Northern Ireland, assistance is arranged through Translink.
What to tell them when you book
- Whether you use a wheelchair or mobility scooter, and its size and weight.
- Whether you can transfer to a seat or will stay in your wheelchair.
- Whether you are travelling with an assistance dog or a companion.
- Any communication needs, for example if you are Deaf, blind, or need information in writing.
- Whether you need help with luggage, or a wheelchair to be provided at the station.
If assistance does not turn up
Tell station staff or the train crew immediately, and make a note of the time and place. Every train company must have an Accessible Travel Policy explaining how to complain and how it will put things right. If you are not satisfied with the response, the Rail Ombudsman can look at the complaint.
Official sources and where to apply
Find providers
Search the accessible transport directory for rail and other services in your area.
Other transport guides
Accessible buses and coaches
Your rights on local buses and long-distance coaches, wheelchair spaces, priority seating, audio-visual announcements and free travel passes.
Airport and airline assistance
Free special assistance at UK airports, how to book it, and how wheelchairs and mobility equipment are handled.
Ferries and water transport
Assistance on ferries to the islands, Northern Ireland and Europe, including notice periods and what to check about the vessel and terminal.
Blue Badge
Who can get a Blue Badge, how eligibility differs across the four nations, how to apply and how to use it.