The Thistle Assistance app lets transport staff know in an easy and discreet way what extra support you’d like during your journey and is recognised by many transport providers across Scotland.
We all welcome a little extra assistance now and again, particularly when travelling alone. Thistle Assistance is an initiative to help you feel safer, more confident and comfortable when using public transport.
There are many reasons why some people feel anxious when travelling. Some may need more time to get to their seat, or for transport staff to notify them when they have reached their destination, or you may like your driver to simply speak more slowly and clearly. Thistle Assistance helps disabled people (and carers) discreetly ask for the support they need rather than having to endlessly explain their requirements, or worse still, keep things to themselves and hope for the best!
Free
The Thistle Assistance app is free to use for anyone who needs it and suits people with a variety of disabilities. In just a few clicks you can personalise the settings to communicate your needs using simple text and symbols – for either occasional travel or for everyday use. The app can be updated to input different requirements and is great for people who have intermittent issues or occasional exacerbations – or you could change your settings for different journeys, such as requesting notification by the bus driver when you’ve arrived at your destination stop.
Download the thistle app
Downloading the free Thistle Assistance app to your mobile phone is easy and means that you always have it with you when you need it. Before travelling, select the symbol that best reflects your disability or impairment and add a message to highlight the help you need to show to transport staff. Details can be updated or changed on the app at any time to reflect your personal circumstances.
If an app doesn’t suit you, there’s also a free card that comes with stickers to allow you to personalise it, and indicate your disability and the help you require.
Andrew (23) from Edinburgh, has a visual impairment but wants to maintain his independence and the freedom to travel. He says: “The Thistle Assistance app is a great way to tell bus drivers and other staff what kind of help I need without sharing it with the entire bus!”
Your travel companion
The Thistle Assistance app and card are recognised by many public transport operators across Scotland, from buses and trains to planes and ferries. Simply show your personalised card or app to their staff and they will understand what additional assistance you require.
Download the app or order a card via: www.thistleassistance.com
Tel: 0131 524 5153
Email: thistlecard@sestran.gov.uk
