This week I proudly visited the RMT picket lines to show my solidarity and support for their strike which is not only for better pay and conditions for their workers, but to preserve our ticket offices.
Train operators are currently proposing that a majority of manned ticket offices in England are closed, which would not only cost jobs but would also seriously limit the independence of those living with disability as they attempt to use the railways.
Blind and partially sighted people, as well as those with difficulty accessing platforms and operating digital ticket systems already face barriers to travel – not to mention those who are left frustrated when digital ticket machines do not work – and striking RMT members understand that this is just part of the stripping away of manned services on our railways and must be stopped.
I will always stand up for workers pushing back against blatant profiteering from operators and private companies.