TSSA backs TfL priority seating reboot – but calls for investment on accessibility

Rail and transport union TSSA has welcomed a move from Transport for London (TfL) in which priority seating will be more clearly signposted, with a colour contrast and labels, on the Underground and buses.

The seating redesign will be rolled out on new DLR and Piccadilly Line trains, as well as refurbished Central Line and Waterloo and City trains.  

Commenting, TSSA General Secretary, Maryam Eslamdoust, said: “This is a move in the right direction by TfL, one which our union welcomes. The challenge now is to go further, with these changes being seen right across London’s rail and bus network and far beyond. 

“Priority seating is essential for many disabled people, the elderly and others in society, such as pregnant women. Public services must be exactly that – services the entire public can use.  

“Our union has long argued that serious investment is needed by government to make public transport fully accessible for disabled people of all kinds.   

“This is an issue that affects millions of people across the UK, and therefore accessible public transport is not just a convenience - it is a necessity. It is essential for ensuring everyone, regardless of their abilities, has the freedom to travel, work, and participate fully in society.  

“In practice this means improving access at stations, ensuring all public transport vehicles are fully accessible, keeping ticket offices open and fully staffing stations. Transport should be a right, not a barrier.”