At the SpLinter Hub members of our group have been completing the  Travelling with Confidence course  alongside  Adapt NE. This course was funded by Motability Foundation to support adults with a learning disability and/or autistic people which helped learners to gain skills to use public transport safely and independently.

One of our Travel champions, Frank Lyford from the SpLinter Group, has helped learners build the knowledge and practical skills needed to travel safely and independently using public transport. Throughout the course, participants completed supported journeys on both buses and trains. These journeys gave everyone the opportunity to practise planning routes, buying tickets, understanding timetables, and travelling with confidence while being supported by staff.

We also explored common problems that can happen when using public transport, such as delays, cancellations, missing a stop, or not knowing where to go. Learners discussed practical ways to deal with these situations, including asking transport staff for help, checking travel information, and staying calm if plans change.

Safety was an important part of the course. We learned about fire exits on buses, trains, and at stations, including where they are located, how to identify emergency exit signs, and what to do in the event of an emergency. This has helped learners understand how to travel more safely and confidently.

By taking part in this course, learners have developed greater independence, improved their problem-solving skills, and gained the confidence to use public transport in their everyday lives. The practical experience and safety awareness gained during the course will help them feel more prepared for future journeys.