Stagecoach Manchester employees are running special training events to help bus passengers with sight loss.
The programme sees driving instructors make regular visits with a Bee Network bus to the Guide Dogs Northwest training centre in Atherton.
The visits enable the instructors to take the trainee guide dogs and their handlers on both long and short journeys on the bus. This not only helps familiarise them with the nuances of bus travel, such as stepping onto the vehicle and finding a seat, but also helps them to socialise.
Rob Jones, Managing Director of Stagecoach Manchester, said:
“Customer service is paramount to us, and I firmly believe that we already do a huge amount of good work in how we welcome people with sight loss onto our services.
“However, it’s a real pleasure to collaborate with Guide Dogs, supporting the excellent work done by their trainers and dogs to make the Bee Network buses as accessible as possible.”
Stewart Hadfield, Driver Training Instructor at Stagecoach Manchester, added:
“Taking the buses over to the training centre is something we really look forward to. Helping the trainers get the dogs used to boarding and riding the bus is such a rewarding experience. It’s a great way to do something meaningful while doing the job we all love.”
Caroline Charnock, Dog Supply Manager at Guide Dogs, said:
“Stagecoach Manchester very kindly offered to let our dogs and trainers practice positive associations with all the noises of the bus, getting on and off, settling at a seat, and travelling. These training sessions gave everyone the opportunity to take their time, approach the bus at the dogs pace and make it a positive experience.
“We’d like to say a big thank you to Stagecoach Manchester for supporting us”.
