National Disability Card partners with Nottingham Express Transit

Supporting passengers with disabilities across the tram network

The National Disability and Carers Card scheme is delighted to announce a new partnership with Nottingham Express Transit (NET), the city's tram network. From today, the National Disability Card and National Carers Card will be recognised across the NET network, making it easier for disabled passengers, particularly those with hidden disabilities, to let staff know they may need extra support while travelling.

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Many passengers with hidden disabilities, including mental health conditions and neurodivergence, may find it difficult to evidence that they have a particular support need when using public transport. For some passengers, parts of the journey such as buying the right ticket, finding a ticket machine or knowing what to do when approached by staff can be confusing or overwhelming. Thanks to this partnership, disabled passengers can now use trams in Nottingham with greater confidence, knowing that staff on the network are trained to recognise their card and to understand when a passenger may need more time, patience or guidance.

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Edward Herbert, Director of the National Disability Card, said:

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"Travelling on public transport can be a real source of anxiety for many disabled people, which is why we’re thrilled that Nottingham Express Transit has chosen to recognise the National Disability Card across its network. We know that many of our card holders already use their cards on public transport to receive help and understanding from fellow passengers and staff, and official recognition by the network takes that support one step further. This partnership will provide greater confidence to card holders as well as promoting inclusion and accessibility for a wide range of needs.”

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Joanne Smedley, Head of Service Delivery at Nottingham Express Transit, commented:

"Ensuring our trams are as accessible as possible for all is always a priority for us, and this partnership with the National Disability and Carers Card Scheme is an extension of that, helping us improve the travel experience for customers with disabilities, including those with non-visible conditions such as ADHD, autism, PTSD, and more.

Anyone travelling with a National Disability Card or National Carers Card can simply show their card to one of our trained customer experience agents and they'll be on hand to provide any additional support or guidance. 

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This partnership marks a significant milestone in our commitment to making our network more inclusive, welcoming, and supportive of the diverse needs of the communities we serve."

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About Nottingham Express Transit

Nottingham Express Transit (NET) is Nottingham's tram system. The network consists of two main lines, Toton Lane to Hucknall and Clifton to Phoenix Park, both of which pass through the city centre. All trams are low floor, with dedicated wheelchair and pushchair spaces, electronic signage and audible announcements, and seven park and ride sites across the network offer free parking, including dedicated Blue Badge spaces. 

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About the National Disability Card

The National Disability & Carers Card scheme was set up in 2019 by carers to make everyday life and access easier for people with disabilities and those who care for them. The scheme supports 300,000 card holders and provides easy-to-carry visual identification that helps users avoid repeatedly explaining their disability or caring role. The National Disability Card is accepted as proof of disability at 600+ venues across the UK and abroad.