19/06/2025                                                                            
                                    
                                                                            
                                            This week I wanted to share some information about travelling with your mobility scooters or powerchair.
Train travel in the North - Northern Rail require you to obtain a permit if you are a regular traveller with your mobility scooter.
Can I take my mobility scooter on Northern trains?
To make the best use of these improvements, following a successful trial, Northern Rail are now able to offer their customers who use mobility scooters better access at more than 100 stations, which are also accessible.
They welcome applications for a scooter “Rail Ready” permit from users of both 3 and 4-wheel vehicles. All they ask is that they meet the following criteria:
*The scooter must be a class 2 vehicle with a maximum speed of 4mph
*Maximum length of 120cm and width of 70cm (standard wheelchair footprint)
*Turning radius of no larger than 150cm
*Maximum weight including rider is no more than 300kg (47 stone)
To apply for a scooter “Rail Ready” permit, follow the link below.
https://northernrail.my.site.com/s/scooter-permit
What happens if the scooter meets the requirements?
If your scooter meets the requirements of the scheme, they will send you a personalised card and a sticker that must be displayed on your scooter. This does not replace your ticket, and you will need to purchase the appropriate ticket for your journey. Please be aware that the information in this leaflet and mobility scooter badge applies to Northern services only. For travel on other operators' services, you must check the individual mobility scooter policies before travel.
Follow these steps when taking your mobility scooter on a Northern train:
*Do not cross the yellow line on the platform before the train arrives. They also ask that any shopping or luggage be removed from mobility scooters prior to boarding, as these items can affect the balance of the vehicle.
*They will put the ramp down so that you can board the wheelchair area of the train. If you are travelling without a companion, they will bring any shopping or luggage you are travelling with. When onboard, please turn off your scooter, apply the brakes, and, if possible, transfer to a seat.
*They recommend that you book in advance, but are happy to accommodate you (if there is space available on the train) if you choose not to do so. Their Travel Assistance Team are available to help with any bookings or advice, they can be contacted on 0800 138 5560.