Blind and partially sighted commuters face "dangerous" journeys on the London Underground as RMT strikes this month will drastically reduce staff numbers needed to guide vulnerable passengers safely through the network.
The union has confirmed strike action for 5 and 8 January, with further walkouts planned for 10 January and 24 and 26 January, as part of an ongoing dispute over pay, jobs, and working conditions.
Organisations representing visually impaired passengers warn their members rely critically on Tube staff for safe navigation, particularly during disruptions. Without trained personnel to guide them to platforms, help board trains safely, or provide information during service changes, routine journeys become perilous.
The Tube network's complex layouts, multiple lines, and busy environments present unique challenges for those with visual impairments. Staff play a vital role helping these commuters find correct platforms, board and alight trains safely, and navigate stations during unexpected service changes or emergencies.
Campaigners stress that whilst strikes inevitably cause inconvenience for all commuters, the impact on vulnerable groups can be disproportionately severe, potentially isolating them or forcing them into less safe or more expensive alternative transport.
Guide Dogs and other organisations have previously raised similar concerns during past strike actions, emphasising the need for Transport for London and unions to consider disabled passengers' specific needs when planning industrial action and contingency measures.
The warnings reiterate calls for robust provisions to ensure public transport safety and accessibility for all users, even during disputes.