TfGM rolls out dementia training for frontline Bee Network staff

The Bee Network is rolling out dementia awareness training for all frontline staff as part as part of work by Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) to make public transport more inclusive and accessible in Greater Manchester.

Hundreds of Bee Network staff members have started a programme of training with the Alzheimer’s Society in a bid to better equip frontline workers with the knowledge and confidence to support passengers living with dementia.

Around 540 staff working on the Bee Network will be trained by the end of the year. Staff receiving training will include customer service and security staff working on Metrolink, and staff at Travelshops, bus stations including Stockport Interchange, and the Bee Network contact centre.

Alongside dementia training, TfGM is working closely with partners such as its Disability Design Reference Group (DDRG), Breakthrough UK, and Bee Network Committee Disability Advocate, Cllr Tracey Rawlins, to ensure our services are shaped by lived experience.

The goal is for dementia training to be rolled out for all Bee Network bus drivers too. TfGM is working with the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) and bus operators to integrate dementia training into the Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC).

The commitment to delivering dementia training for all Bee Network staff was made after TfGM was approached by local campaigner Dr Joy Watson.

Greater Manchester Transport Commissioner, Vernon Everitt said:  

“Making the Bee Network accessible and inclusive for everyone is critical. Many people living with dementia rely on public transport to maintain their independence and connection to their community, but they may need extra support to make their journeys. 

“That’s why we’ve committed to all Bee Network frontline staff completing dementia awareness training and are making good progress in rolling it out. It will help our colleagues spot the signs of someone who might need help and equip them with the knowledge and confidence to step-in and provide that vital support at a time when it might be needed most. 

“By the end of the year, all the Bee Network’s frontline staff will have completed the Alzheimer’s Society training and we’re working with the bus operators and the DVSA to ensure that our bus drivers receive the training too.”