Research & Problem Definition
- [x] Find statistics: How many dyslexic people live in the UK? How many use public transport regularly? Include sources in pitch deck.
- [x] Review what TFL already offers for neurodivergent or dyslexic passengers.
- [x] Identify common pain points via surveys, forums, or testimonials (e.g. reading signs, processing maps, journey planning, sensory overwhelm).
Dyslexia Prevalence in the UK
- According to the NHS, up to 1 in 10 people in the UK (around 10%) have some degree of dyslexia.
- Academic research (UWE Bristol / DfT) estimates 4–6% of the UK population are dyslexic, with up to 10% showing related difficulties.
Challenges for Disabled and Neurodivergent Travellers
- A recent survey found that 25% of disabled and elderly people avoid using public transport in the UK due to accessibility issues.
- In 2023, 93% of disabled train travellers reported encountering accessibility challenges on UK railways.
- Two-thirds of disabled train passengers experienced at least one barrier (e.g. unclear announcements, inaccessible facilities).
Neurodivergent and Youth Experiences
- A study of 1,200 young disabled people (including neurodivergent individuals) in England and Wales found:
- 47% felt unable to use priority seating without being challenged.
- 63% experienced mental and physical exhaustion from public transport use.
- 63% also reported feeling unsafe while travelling
Specific Barriers for Dyslexic Travellers
- The British Dyslexia Association submitted evidence to UK Parliament indicating dyslexic travellers face mobility barriers due to inaccessible information and signage, leading to social exclusion.
- Research emphasises that poor signage, complex navigation, and information overload particularly disadvantage people with dyslexia.
- I want to also emphasis the underground map, being unreadable for most, let alone someone with additional need.
How I could use these Stats in my project
- Pitch Deck: Use prevalence data (e.g. 10% of UK population) to define my market size.
- Problem Slide: Highlight the high percentage of disabled travellers who avoid or struggle on public transport.