Stagecoach staff to take 'MyGuide' Training
Friday 14th February saw staff at Stagecoach’s Exeter depot participate in the first of a series of training sessions designed to increase awareness of the emotional and practical consequences of using public transport with a visual impairment.
‘MyGuide’ training sessions, run by Guide Dogs for the Blind, are targeted at businesses who, in their every-day operations, regularly encounter visually impaired customers. Each half day course is much more than just classroom learning and includes a series of practical exercises such as the skills needed to be a sighted guide.
The ‘MyGuide’ courses are in addition to the accredited disability training all Stagecoach South West staff already receive. Sessions are initially being targeted at key operational and training staff as these groups are in the best position to pass on the latest advice and best practice to drivers.
Michael Watson, Managing Director of Stagecoach South West, commented “Whilst our existing disability awareness training is very thorough this course adds the all-important ‘walk a mile in my shoes’ element by asking staff to experience the world as a person with a visual impairment.”
Michael also took part in the training and found the whole experience extremely worthwhile. He added “We take our sight so much for granted and also make assumptions on how visually impaired people navigate from A to B. This training was a very powerful lesson in how we can practically support someone’s independence in their day to day life.”
Rick Allbrook, MyGuide Ambassador for Exeter, said ““The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association is delighted that Stagecoach South West has taken up our offer of MyGuide training. Guide Dog Owners will be reassured to hear that Stagecoach is taking steps to further improve its service by ensuring that its drivers are aware of the problems they experience when travelling by bus. I have no doubt that this training will make travelling by bus a safer and more enjoyable experience, not just for Guide Dog Owners, but for all people who are blind or partially sighted”.”
Following on from Exeter, Guide Dogs for the Blind will also be running ‘My Guide’ training sessions at the bus operator’s Torquay and Barnstaple depots.
