L.B. Foster: Pioneering Accessibility with British Sign Language (BSL) Innovations Across the UK Rail Network
- Mar 31, 2025
- Rail
L.B. Foster is delighted to be recognised in the Railway Industry Association’s (RIA) recent report, The Journey to Equality: Creating a Railway for All. This report, which features a foreword by Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson DBE, emphasises supplier-driven advancements in accessibility and sheds light on both ongoing challenges and impactful solutions for disabled passengers.
This innovative solution transforms rail travel for deaf passengers by converting live train movement data into British Sign Language (BSL) videos. Building on its partnership with TransPennine Express (TPE), L.B. Foster has set a new standard for integrating British Sign Language (BSL) into rail communications.
This video is provided courtesy of Network Rail. All rights and acknowledgments go to Network Rail as the original source of the video content.
Since 2022, passengers across TPE's network have had access to vital travel information via BSL screens, eliminating reliance on audio or text-only updates. Recently, TPE upgraded screens at Manchester Airport to provide information that helps BSL users quickly and easily find the next train into the city centre.
In April 2024, L.B. Foster embarked on a significant collaboration with the Rail Delivery Group (RDG) and train operators to introduce its Welcome Points trial. This initiative aims to enhance customer service and accessibility throughout the rail network.
The Welcome Points are the latest innovation within L.B. Foster’s totems range, meticulously designed in consultation with accessibility groups, passenger bodies, and train operators. These units cater to specific accessibility needs, offering features for wheelchair users and advanced assistive technology to aid visually impaired passengers in locating Welcome Points and seeking assistance.
L.B. Foster’s forward-thinking approach has positioned the Welcome Point as a true symbol of progress within the railway industry - a dependable resource for passengers of all abilities that exemplifies inclusivity and innovation.
Looking to the future, L.B. Foster aims to broaden its accessibility initiatives to encompass bus, tram, and air travel. By driving accessibility across all modes of transport, the company is fostering a world where independent travel is an achievable reality for all.
A Commitment to Equality L.B. Foster champions the principles of inclusivity and equal opportunity, empowering all passengers with innovative solutions. Together with its industry partners, the company is laying the foundation for an accessible and passenger-centric travel experience.
For more details, read the full report: The Journey to Equality: Creating a Railway for All (Page 34).
