Flash a First card and have a safer journey

Claire Johnson shows one of the new cards to a driver

ELDERLY and vulnerable bus passengers in Oldham are being given a helping hand to stay safe when they are out and about on the bus this winter.

First in Manchester has introduced Safe Journey Cards which are being distributed in Oldham to help people feel safer when travelling on the bus. The wallet sized cards are designed to be shown when boarding the bus allowing the passenger to alert bus drivers if they have disabilities or mobility problems.

Claire Johnson, commercial director for First in Manchester, said: “With evenings drawing in we want to ensure our passengers feel as safe as possible while travelling with us.

“Our Safe Journey Cards are already proving really popular and we’d urge anyone who feels at all vulnerable when out and about to get one. The idea is that the passenger can easily let the driver know if they need any help, such as speaking more slowly or giving them time to reach their seats before setting off.

“We work hard to ensure our passengers can enjoy a safe and pleasant journey by ensuring all our drivers receive top training, installing CCTV cameras on our buses and constantly looking at ways to improve the service.”

Staff from First will be at Shudehill interchange in Manchester city centre giving out the cards today between 1.30 and 3.30pm. People can also download the cards at www.firstgroup.com or request one by calling First’s Careline on 08457-88 11 55.