Introducing TfL's "Please offer me a seat badge" – here's what you need to know about it

New badge for Tube travellers with hidden conditions

Transport for London has launched a new badge for those with hidden conditions, illnesses and injuries to alert fellow passengers of their need for a seat on public transport.

The “please offer me a seat” badges, which are similar to the popular Baby on Board badges, are being trialled from next month to help passengers who need a seat, but often have difficulty getting one.

Transport for London (TfL) is recruiting 1,000 people to take part in the European-first six-week trial to assess how successful it is for passengers to use and the reactions of others. They will also be given a card that can be shown to TfL staff.

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan said: “We hope that these new blue badges can make a real difference to those who find it difficult to get a seat when they need one, particularly those with hidden disabilities. Everyone who travels around London knows about the success of the Baby on Board badges. I want Londoners to embrace our new trial and help these blue badges become as instantly-recognisable, giving confidence to those wearing them on public transport across London.”

Mike Brown MVO, London’s Transport Commissioner, said: “We appreciate that asking for a seat on public transport can sometimes be difficult, particularly for customers who have hidden disabilities or conditions. That is why we are launching this trial, and if it is successful we will work closely with older and disabled people’s organisations to develop the final product. I hope that Londoners help make the trial a success and offer their seat to someone with one of the badges or cards who may be in need.”