No Go Britain: disabled bus passengers fight court decision

In 2012 Channel 4 News began investigating the difficulties faced by wheelchair users in Darlington for the No Go Britain series. We revealed problems including broken ramps and parents with buggies occupying wheelchair spaces.

In the first case of its kind, several disabled people took legal action against Arriva North East claiming the company was in breach of the equality act.

We are always open and willing to discuss issues affecting people with disabilities to help make public transport even more accessible. Nigel Featham, Arriva

The group challenged an Arriva policy which meant that drivers do not have to force passengers occupying wheelchair spaces to make way if a wheelchair user wants to board.

However, the judge ruled there was no breach of the equality act because disabled passengers were not at a “substantial disadvantage” compared with other bus users.

The judge acknowledged that the equality act does apply to the bus company and recommended Arriva North East amend some of its policies to ensure wheelchair users are not unduly disadvantaged in the future.

In a statement, Nigel Featham, managing director for Arriva North East, said: “We welcome the judgement but were disappointed that the matter went to court as we are always open and willing to discuss issues affecting people with disabilities to help make public transport even more accessible wherever possible.”

Lawyers representing the Darlington group plan to appeal the decision saying they do not feel the judgement goes far enough.

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