New software makes railway website more accessible

train operator North It has added extra features to its website to make it more accessible when checking train schedules or the latest information about its services.

The new features are made possible by a new software program called . read me This allows people to view and use the website in the way that best suits them.

Read Me allows people to change the font, text size, and text color on the page they’re viewing, or use the read-aloud function.

It is designed for use by a wide range of people, including: with neurodiversity Since it can translate the information on the website into more than 100 different languages, it can be used by anyone who is blind or visually impaired, as well as anyone who does not speak English as their first language.

The website also features A new AI-powered chatbot This puts customers in touch with a member of Northern’s Customer Experience Centre.

If you do not want to use the chatbot, anyone with a question or complaint can still contact the Customer Experience Center by phone or speak to a member of staff at the station.

The website improvements come after Northern made improvements to its website that make it quicker and easier to request a refund, make a complaint or make an inquiry.

“The implementation of technologies such as Recite Me on the website makes information more accessible, which gives disabled people greater confidence in travelling.
“The way information is presented can often exclude people. This embedding of choice and flexibility into the website will reduce barriers and make interacting with Northern easier.
“Children, the elderly, those with visual impairments and those with learning differences such as dyslexia and dyspraxia are just some of those who can benefit from making the website more accessible in this way.”

Mark Cutter, president of Northern accessibility User Group