The Department for Transport has not had recent discussions with rail franchisees, or other transport operators, about the way they provide their services to deaf and hard of hearing passengers. However, improving access to travel for disabled people is an ongoing objective of the Government, and the Department expects all service providers to consider the needs of deaf and hard of hearing passengers as required by the Disability Discrimination Act 1995 (as amended).
The Department for Transport sets out the strategy for improving access to rail transport in ‘Railways for All: The Accessibility Strategy for Great Britain's Railways’. This strategy anticipates that holders of rail franchises will ensure their services improve access to travel for disabled passengers, including those who are deaf or hard of hearing.