Portsmouth gets 90 talking bus stops for blind/visually-impaired passengers

Travelling by bus is being made easier for blind and visually-impaired passengers in Portsmouth thanks to the introduction of 90 talking bus stops.

The Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) have introduced a scheme branded ‘React’, featuring trigger fobs which can be used to hear information at bus shelters.

RNIB React trigger fobs will be available at 25% of their full cost, with Portsmouth City Council paying the difference.

The system links to Portsmouth’s Bus Real Time Information signs, allowing blind and visually-impaired people to hear announcements at bus stops telling them which bus stop they are at, which buses are coming, and when they are due to arrive, meaning they no longer need to rely on fellow passengers for help.

RNIB React helps make Portsmouth more accessible, delivering independence and confidence for blind and visually-impaired people who want to use local buses.

Councillor Jim Fleming,  Portsmouth City Council’s Cabinet Member for Traffic & Transportation, said: “I am delighted that we are able to offer our residents the opportunity to make use of this technology at a reduced price in order to make travelling by bus in Portsmouth an easier and more attractive option.”

The council have written to every visually-impaired concessionary card holder directly to let them know about the availability of the fobs.

The React trigger fobs are available at a reduced cost of £10.00 from Central Library in Guildhall Square. Call Julie Duffy in advance to arrange an appointment on 02392 829 923.