Navigating Public Transport Delays or Cancellations

Prepare Before You Travel

Check Schedules:

• Look up the planned departure and arrival times for your journey.

• Example: Use the National Rail Enquiries app to check train times (www.nationalrail.co.uk).

Monitor for Disruptions:

• Check for updates on your route shortly before leaving.

• Example: Open the TfL Go app for London Underground updates (www.tfl.gov.uk).

Plan for Extra Time:

• Add 20–30 minutes of buffer time in case of minor delays.

• Example: Arrive at the station early or take an earlier bus.

Identify Backup Routes:

• Research alternative ways to reach your destination.

• Example: If your train is delayed, check if a bus or another train line can get you there.

Pack Essentials:

• Bring items to help you stay calm and comfortable during delays:

  • Noise-cancelling headphones.

  • Snacks and a reusable water bottle.

  • Sensory tools like a fidget toy or weighted lap pad.

Helpful Apps:

• Citymapper: Provides alternative routes for buses, trains, and walking (www.citymapper.com).

• Trainline: Offers real-time train schedules and updates (www.thetrainline.com).

Recognise When There’s a Delay or Cancellation

Look at the Information Boards:

• Find your service on the departure board and check for updates like “Delayed” or “Cancelled.”

Listen for Announcements:

• Pay attention to public address systems for real-time updates.

Check Apps or Websites:

• Use transport apps like National Rail Enquiries or TfL Go for accurate information.

Speak to Staff:

• Ask for confirmation and advice if you’re unsure about the situation.

• Example: “Excuse me, can you tell me the status of the next train to Birmingham?”

Contact Numbers for Assistance:

• National Rail Customer Service: 03457 48 49 50.

• TfL Customer Service (London): 0343 222 1234 (www.tfl.gov.uk/contact).

Stay Calm and Create a Plan

Delays can feel overwhelming, but staying calm allows you to think clearly and decide on your next steps.

Pause and Breathe:

• Use a calming technique, such as 4-7-8 breathing: Inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 7 seconds, and exhale for 8 seconds.

Find a Quiet Spot:

• Move to a less crowded area to reduce sensory overload.

Use Sensory Tools:

• Put on noise-cancelling headphones or use a fidget toy to stay focused.

Write Down Your Options:

• Use a notebook or your phone to list what you can do next (e.g., wait, take another route, or call for help).

Helpful Resource:

• National Autistic Society (Travel Tips): www.autism.org.uk.

Explore Alternative Options

If your planned transport is delayed or cancelled, look for other ways to continue your journey.

Check for Other Services:

• Use apps like Citymapper or Google Maps to find alternative buses, trains, or walking routes.

Ask for Staff Assistance:

• Station staff can provide directions to alternative transport options.

• Example: “Can you help me find a bus to replace this cancelled train?”

Consider a Taxi or Rideshare:

• Use services like Uber or Bolt for shorter distances.

Request Help for Accessibility Needs:

• If you need assistance boarding another train or bus, ask for help.

Contact for Passenger Assistance:

• Passenger Assist (UK Trains): Book support at www.nationalrail.co.uk/stations_destinations/passenger_assist.aspx.

Communicate Your Situation

Inform others of delays to help manage expectations and reduce stress.

Call or Text:

• Inform family, friends, or colleagues about the delay.

• Example: “My train is delayed by 30 minutes. I’ll be late but will update you.”

Ask for Support:

• Let someone know if you’re feeling overwhelmed and need guidance.

Speak with Station Staff:

• Staff can explain your options or help you navigate a new route.

What to Do If You’re Stranded

If no alternative transport is available, take steps to stay safe and manage the situation.

Ask for Help:

• Approach station staff or call the transport provider for advice.

Find Temporary Shelter:

• Look for a waiting room, café, or other safe, warm space.

Contact Emergency Services if Necessary:

• If you feel unsafe or stranded late at night, call 999 for immediate assistance.

Contact a Taxi or Family Member:

• Arrange for someone to pick you up if needed.

Claim Compensation for Delays

Many UK transport providers offer compensation for significant delays or cancellations.

Check Eligibility:

• Review the provider’s policy on compensation.

• Example: National Rail offers Delay Repay for delays over 15–30 minutes.

Keep Your Ticket:

• Save your ticket or receipt as proof of travel.

Submit a Claim:

• Visit the transport provider’s website and complete their claim form.

• Example: Submit a Delay Repay claim at www.nationalrail.co.uk/delayrepay.

Access Support and Resources

Useful Websites and Apps:

• National Rail Enquiries: Real-time train updates and Delay Repay (www.nationalrail.co.uk).

• Citymapper: Alternative routes for buses, trains, and walking (www.citymapper.com).

• TfL Go: Live updates for London’s transport network (www.tfl.gov.uk).

• Trainline: Book tickets and view live train schedules (www.thetrainline.com).

Contact for Help:

• National Rail Customer Service: 03457 48 49 50.

• TfL Customer Service: 0343 222 1234.

• Transport Focus (Passenger Advocacy): www.transportfocus.org.uk.

Practice Self-Compassion

Managing delays is challenging, but small steps can make a big difference.

Tips for Self-Compassion:

• Celebrate small victories, like finding an alternative route or remaining calm.

• Remind yourself that delays are not your fault.

Example Scenario: Train Cancellation

1. Check Updates: Your train is cancelled. You use the National Rail app to confirm the next available train is in 40 minutes.

2. Communicate: Text your friend to let them know you’ll be late.

3. Explore Alternatives: Use Citymapper to find a nearby bus that can get you to your destination faster.

4. Ask for Help: Speak to staff for directions to the bus stop.

5. Stay Calm: Put on noise-cancelling headphones and use a fidget toy while waiting.

Final Thoughts

By following these expanded steps and using the provided resources, you can confidently navigate delays or cancellations and access help when needed. Ask for help if you are unsure, whether that be from friends or family over the phone/text, or face-to-face with staff.