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Assisted travel on the railway

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Mishap Mon 21-Jan-13 15:08:01

I need to get down to Devon to see my Dad with his broken pelvis. I am on crutches and in a leg plaster at the moment. I could drive in my new automatic car, but think I would rather go on the train, as I could be in difficulties if I needed a loo stop or the car broke down on the motorway as I cannot walk very far with ease. I will be in my own.

I have rung the assisted travel bods and they were most helpful.

My only concern is that they said that they would put out the wheelchair ramp for me to go up on my crutches - I fear that this might be too steep for going up on crutches. Is there anyone who has experience of using this service who could comment and advise?

Lots of thanks.

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Anne58 Mon 21-Jan-13 15:12:47

If it is a ramp just to get from the platform onto the train, I have seen these being used and you have no need to worry!

Where in Devon are you travelling to?

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Ariadne Mon 21-Jan-13 15:14:14

Yes, where?

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Mishap Mon 21-Jan-13 15:36:20

Probably to Newton Abbott as I think that is nearest to South Brent - I will get a taxi from there. I will stay in Dad's bungalow as he will not be there and it is just up the road from the residential home where he is staying at the moment.

I will wait until all the snow problems have cleared!

I was a bit concerned that the ramp might be quite steep - I have discovered that crutches and steep slopes don't mix very well - at least not with me!!!

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Anne58 Mon 21-Jan-13 15:38:52

As I said, I have seen them in action and don't think you will have a problem. Also the staff actually help, they don't just line up the ramp and leave you to get on with it!

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Soupy Mon 21-Jan-13 15:39:10

Mishap I've seen the ramps at our local station and they are fine - just used to get people over the step up/down from the carriage and they are moved along the platform to the appropriate place.

I would imagine the railway staff will ask which station you are travelling to and let that station know which carriage you are in so that they can have the ramp ready for your exit - so to speak!

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kittylester Mon 21-Jan-13 16:57:34

You'll be fineMishap as you are somewhat mobile but I've posted before about the brilliant help DS1 has had when travelling by train. Brilliant until they forget about him at the destination. When he manages to attract attention, they get him off at the next station and expect him to wait for the next train back and on which he hasn't got any assistance booked angry

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jeni Mon 21-Jan-13 16:58:53

Yes I've used the, on crutches. They're ok!
Pity you don't live closer to me. I'd lend you my luggie for getting around, or I also have wheelchair which you manually propel yourself.

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Mishap Mon 21-Jan-13 18:02:57

I am overcome with the kindness of gransnetters, several of whom live in Devon and have offered me all sorts of help, as well as the kind suggestions and support online. I am very grateful indeed and it gives me the courage to think that maybe I can make this journey in spite of the difficulties.

Many many thanks to all of you. xxx

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