Rail operator Greater Anglia is giving staff special training to raise awareness and understanding about autism.
Accessibility manger Rebecca Richardson said some passengers on the autism spectrum found using public transport a daunting experience.
“We want all of our customers to have a good experience while travelling with us.”
World Autism Awareness Week takes place from March 26 to April 2.
Greater Anglia has partnered with the Sycamore Trust, a charity supporting parents, carers and individuals affected by autism spectrum disorders and/or learning difficulties.
A number of training sessions are being held for staff around the Greater Anglia network.
People who are on the autism spectrum can get overwhelmed by loud noises and crowds, making public transport particularly challenging.
The idea was championed by Alex Thompson, who works at Greater Anglia’s Stratford training academy, and is autistic.
Alex said: “Autism awareness is very close to my heart, so I am very pleased that Greater Anglia is offering these sessions to colleagues.
It’s really important that people are aware of ways in which they can help someone on the autism spectrum, so we can continue to offer a first class service to all passengers.”
The sessions will aim to equip staff with the skills to support autism in the workplace, learn how to help affected customers and gain a greater understanding of the autism spectrum.
