Making ferries more accessible
A second call for applications to a fund to improve accessibility on Scotland’s ferry network has been announced by Minister for Transport and the Islands Humza Yousaf.
The next stage of the Ferries Accessibility Fund is open to bids from the public and private sector, and aims to make improvements to existing vessels and harbours that go beyond regulatory standards set for accessibility.
The first round of funding saw over £50,000 allocated to projects that improved on-board signage, provided better access to ticket offices, and gave staff training in disability awareness.
Awards will be made on a match-funding basis, as they were in the first round of funding.
Mr Yousaf said:
“I’m very pleased to launch a second call for applications to the Ferries Accessibility Fund and encourage potential bidders to come forward with proposals to improve their services.
“Scotland’s ferry services should be open and accessible to everyone, and we want ferry and harbour operators to provide the best passenger experience possible.
“The first round helped fund a wide range of projects, from training HITRANS staff in disability awareness to improving access to the ticket office at Scrabster Ferry Terminal.
“This funding will help make improvements that address the needs of passengers and encourage more people to use Scotland’s ferry services.”
The successful bidders in the first round included HITRANS, Serco Northlink Ferries, Orkney Ferries and Scrabster Harbour Trust
- The Ferries Accessibility Fund will allocate up to £500,000 and is open to bids from the public and private sector.
- It aims to make improvements to existing vessels and harbours that go beyond regulatory standards set for accessibility.
- Awards are being made on a match-funding basis, which means that successful bidders will have to match the contribution from the fund themselves.
- The first round of successful bidders is as follows:
| Applicant | Project | Amount |
| HITRANS | Introduction of the Thistle Assistance Card | £5,000 |
| Orkney Ferries | Houton Terminal – improving access & facilities | £26,250 |
| Orkney Ferries | Kirkwall Terminal - power assisted doors | £8,360 |
| Scrabster Harbour Trust | Access to Ferry Terminal | £6,000 |
| Serco Northlink Ferries | On board accessible signage | £4,055 |
| Serco Northlink Ferries | Accessible reception desk – Aberdeen Terminal | £640 |
| Serco Northlink Ferries | Lift upgrades - tactile & brail, and audible instructions | £5,554 |