The UK’s Department for Transport is inviting bids for a £1 million grant to boost accessibility for ferries to the Isle of Wight and the Isles of Scilly./p>

Operators can pitch projects that will help elderly and disabled people travel with confidence on the vital transport links connecting them to the mainland. This funding was initially announced as part of the Government’s National Disability Strategy and reinforces its pledge to improve the network for everyone – no matter the mode of transport.

Bids can either be for equipment, such as wheelchairs or accessible ticket machines, or building works like ramp levelling or the installation of Changing Places toilets. All ideas will be considered, so long as they are geared towards improving accessibility.

Ferries from the Isle of Wight and Isles of Scilly to the mainland provide vital connections for around 140,000 residents and are crucial for businesses and tourism. There is currently no expectation this funding will be repeated, so the Government is urging operators to come forward now to support this important initiative.

By Jake Frith