Rail journey to Lincoln helps to improve confidence and reduce social isolation
Residents in the Sheffield suburbs have been given a confidence boost to get out and about independently on the region’s trains.
Individuals local to Darnall and living with disability, anxiety or feelings of loneliness were invited on free days out by train to explore the beautiful city of Lincoln, by South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) Community Rail in partnership with Better Journeys by Rail.
“We’re coming out of a pandemic that kept us inside for far too long and we’d like to help people to overcome any barriers they might have to travel by train, so they can travel independently and connect with other local people”, said Lizzie Davies, from Better Journeys by Rail.
“We went to the fantastic medieval city of Lincoln, where we explored the Cathedral and the Castle grounds. It’s just over an hour away by direct train from Darnall and one of the many fantastic destinations that can be easily reached on our local network. It would be a shame if people missed out on exploring new places because they don’t feel confident enough to travel by rail.”
Once in Lincoln, the participants enjoyed a gentle stroll while relaxing and admiring their surroundings.
“Community Rail is about supporting the community, helping everyone to feel included and confident enough to enjoy the rail network that serves them. Events like this are also a way to engage with people and understand their feelings about the railway and any barriers to using the train, which I can then address within the rail industry”, said Cathrine Ashworth, from SYMCA Community Rail.
“Guided trips like this are a great opportunity to experience a rail journey in a safe and supported environment. We offer advice on navigating the station, planning journeys, buying tickets, passes, boarding the train and accessibility, among other things, to help improve people's confidence.”
The participants had such a positive experience that they’re already planning their next adventure.
“I really enjoyed the train trip as I’ve learnt so many things; it was really informative. I’ve never been on a train in Sheffield before and it was a really good experience, so it won’t be my last! We are planning on visiting Lincoln again to picnic on the Castle grounds. Cathrine and Lizzie were really friendly and supportive”, said Saada Sharif, who lives in Darnall and was among the participants.
The two groups travelled to Lincoln on 30 June and 17 August where they visited Lincoln Castle grounds, Lincoln Cathedral, artisan shops and a tearoom. The trips were supported by Northern railways, which is a partner of Better Journeys by Rail.
SYMCA Community Rail continue to offer rail confidence trips across South Yorkshire to showcase more of the amazing destinations accessible via the rail network, for further information please email Cathrine.