Just a few years ago, travelling by train was a real challenge for people with disabilities. Lifts did not always work, staff were often confused, and boarding took a long time and required considerable effort.

Today, the situation is gradually but noticeably changing.

Ukrzaliznytsia takes into account the comments and recommendations of people with disabilities, improves training and teaches employees how to properly, safely and professionally assist passengers who use wheelchairs.

These changes are evident in practice:

• staff work calmly, attentively and confidently;

• lifts are functioning properly;

• boarding is quick and easy;

• the emotional barrier to communication has been significantly reduced.

Several key results can already be noted:

— employee preparedness has increased significantly;

— the algorithm of actions during escorting has become clear and consistent;

— travel for people with disabilities has become much more accessible than before.

At the same time, the path to full accessibility is still ongoing. There are many challenges that require attention and systematic work.

But it is important that progress is being made and that Ukrzaliznytsia is moving towards creating a truly inclusive service.

Accessibility is not an additional option, but a basic right.

It is positive that this idea is increasingly being implemented in the practice of rail transport.