Train operator Northern has added extra features to its website to make it more accessible when checking for train times or the latest information about its services.
The new features have been made possible by a new software program called Recite Me that allows people to view and use the website in a way that works best for them.
Recite Me allows people to change the font, text size, and text colour on the page they are viewing, or use a read-aloud function.
Designed for use by a wide range of people, including those with neurodiversity or who are visually impaired, it can also be used by anyone who does not speak English as a first language, since it can translate information on the website into more than 100 different languages.
The website also features a new AI-assisted chatbot that enables customers to contact a member of Northern’s Customer Experience Centre.
If you don’t want to use the chatbot, anyone with an enquiry or a complaint can still contact the Customer Experience Centre by phone or speak to a member of staff at a station.
The improvements in its website come after Northern made improvements in an upgrade to its website that made it faster and easier to claim a refund, submit a complaint, or make enquiries.
“Implementing technologies like Recite Me into the website makes information more accessible, which gives disabled people more confidence to travel.
Mark Cutter, chair of Northern’s Accessibility User Group
“Too often the way that information is presented can exclude people. Embedding choice and flexibility into the website in this way will reduce barriers, and facilitate engagement with Northern.
“Children, older people, 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.”
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