Dame Tracey Emin is fronting a new Transport for London campaign to help passengers with hidden disabilities after her own battle with bladder cancer left her navigating public transport with a stoma and wheelchair.
The renowned British artist is promoting TfL's 'Please Offer Me a Seat' badge and card scheme, which allows passengers with non-visible conditions to signal they need priority seating without having to explain their circumstances repeatedly.
Launched in 2017, the scheme supports travellers with conditions including Crohn's disease, anxiety, autism, or those undergoing chemotherapy. The discreet badges and cards aim to reduce stress for passengers who may struggle to stand during journeys but whose needs aren't immediately obvious to other travellers.
Dame Tracey brings direct experience to the role. Following her 2020 bladder cancer diagnosis, she underwent major surgery including removal of her bladder, uterus and parts of her vagina. She now lives with a stoma and uses a wheelchair, giving her firsthand knowledge of both visible and hidden disability challenges on London's transport network.
TfL hopes featuring such a prominent figure will reach wider audiences and encourage empathy amongst passengers. The campaign reminds travellers that disabilities aren't always visible and that offering a seat can significantly improve someone's journey.
The initiative targets thousands of Londoners who rely on public transport but feel uncomfortable requesting priority seating. By normalising the badge scheme, TfL aims to help these passengers travel with greater confidence across the capital's transport system.
Source: ITV News