Eurostar has recently reaffirmed its dedication to supporting the disabled community by endorsing the Charter for the Inclusion of Travelers with Autism in the railway sector. This charter, created in collaboration with SNCF Réseau and various partners, highlights the collective responsibility to enhance inclusivity for all rail passengers across Eurostar’s network, which spans five countries.

As of this World Autism Awareness Day, Eurostar is set to implement significant improvements to create a more enjoyable travel experience for individuals with autism. The company’s commitments include:

• Ensuring that websites meet digital accessibility standards and sharing this across ticketing platforms.
• Delivering clear, neurodivergent-friendly information through both digital and physical channels.
• Improving accessibility to booking assistance at stations through the Assist’enGare platform.
• Providing targeted training for staff on the needs of customers with autism.
• Involving autistic individuals in the evaluation of customer journeys and making necessary adjustments based on their feedback.
• Enhancing awareness regarding pedestrian safety and ensuring all passengers know the safety information at stations and on trains.
• Examining the potential for introducing sensory-friendly areas in stations and trains to help autistic individuals mitigate stimuli from crowds and noise.

Heather Campbell, Eurostar’s Chief Communication and Diversity & Inclusion Officer, articulated the importance of this initiative, stating: “At Eurostar, we believe that travel should be an inclusive and positive experience for all. By signing this charter, we are taking a crucial step towards making our trains, check-in, and lounges more accessible and welcoming, with a particular focus on creating an environment where autistic individuals feel at ease. This commitment reflects our dedication to ensuring that every passenger feels safe and supported.”