Customer care

Wheelchair Safety

Unfortunately there is no such thing as a standard wheelchair and so we have to use a variety of systems to make sure that when wheelchair Passengers travel in our vehicles they are firmly secured. So, if you change your wheelchair, please let us know so that we can carry out what is known as a ‘risk assessment’ - what we call the process of making sure that we know in advance what equipment to send out with the vehicle when you make a trip. Ring your enquiry number to make the necessary arrangements. An assessment also takes place for new passengers with wheelchairs when you first register.

If you are thinking of acquiring a wheelchair which you want to use when travelling, we are happy to provide advice on suitable types of chair. Wheelchair users are reminded that they are responsible for ensuring that their wheelchair is in a safe condition to travel. The driver will be unable to carry you if it is seen as unsafe to do so. None of the equipment used to secure wheelchairs will cause any damage to them if they have been properly maintained.

Picking Up/ Setting Down Points

Although we will try and take Passengers to their exact destination, there are circumstances where vehicles cannot get near particular addresses for reasons of safety, because of difficult access arrangements or because of parked cars or local traffic restrictions. This is particularly the case in busy town and city centres and so the Charity is lobbying for purpose built stops at key locations which will have shelters etc for the benefit of Ring and Ride Passengers.

Where these exist the Passenger will be advised at the time of booking and new facilities will be described in the newsletter once they have become available. Normally, the driver will help the Passenger from the door of their home etc to the vehicle.

Seat Belts and Wheelchair Securing

All vehicles are fitted with seat belts for the safety and comfort of Passengers and to comply with insurance conditions. They should be used for even the shortest journeys. Wheelchair Passengers should note that driving staff are fully trained in a variety of systems to secure different types of wheelchairs. They should ensure that their chairs are secured and that the special seatbelt provided for use by wheelchair Passengers is used.

Please tell us (by ringing the local enquiry number) if a child will be travelling- we may be able to provide a child seat restraint but this cannot be guaranteed. If you have a medical exemption from wearing a seat belt, please let us know.

Standing and Smoking

No standing Passengers are allowed to travel on Ring and Ride vehicles and we operate a no smoking policy on our buses for the comfort of all Passengers.

What To Do in the Event of Accidents/Illness When Travelling?

If you are unfortunate enough to be injured or are taken ill whilst travelling on Ring and Ride please ensure that the Driver is notified so that he can render First Aid or contact the depot to get instruction. All Ring and Ride vehicles are fitted with two-way radios for your safety.

Dogs and Pets

We are happy to carry guide dogs for sight-impaired or hearing-impaired Passengers and no charge is made. However, for the health, safety and comfort of other Passengers, no other dogs and pets are allowed.

Luggage

The amount of luggage/shopping bags etc which can be carried on the bus is left to the discretion of the driver. Please bear in mind that loose bags and their contents can be a safety hazard to other Passengers in the event of an accident and so you should restrict the luggage you take on the vehicle to what can be carried by one person.

Conduct on Buses

Ring and Ride staff are expected to be helpful and courteous at all times. Users also have a responsibility to act appropriately to ensure that everyone travels safely and securely.