White badges informing commuters that a lady has a baby on board are being joined by blue badges to indicate a hidden disability.
The ‘Please Offer Me a Seat’ badge, and accompanying card, were trialled by some 1,200 people earlier this year to help those who need a seat, but have difficulty getting one. The trial was in response to finding that people with hidden disabilities and conditions, or those undergoing treatments, can often find it difficult to get a seat when they need one.
During the trial, 72 percent of journeys were said to be easier as a result of the badge, in 86 percent of journeys participants reported feeling more confident when asking for a seat.
Members of the public have been developing their own solutions to the problem, such as a ‘cancer on board’ badge. Its creator, James McNaught took part in the TfL trial.
The new badge and card will be introduced on a permanent basis in spring 2017.
Although I have absolutely no objection in principle to the badge I don’t think many people will realise the wearer has a disability. Maybe another symbol could be added or actually saying they have a disability.