Passenger group welcomes ticketing code of practice

Transport Focus (formerly Passenger Focus) says passengers will benefit from a new code of practice aimed at providing better information and advice for buying tickets.

The new industry code has been developed by the Office of Rail Regulation (now the Office of Rail and Road), with train operators, ticket retailers, Transport Focus and the Department for Transport heavily involved.

The code says that ticket retailers should provide passengers with all the information they might need for choosing, buying and using the most appropriate ticket for their journey.

Restrictions on ticket types and validity must be explained clearly before purchase, as must compensation and refund rights, the ability to break a journey, assistance for disabled passengers, and availability of onboard services and arrangements for travelling with luggage or bicycles. It is acknowledged that not all of the information will be needed for all passengers, but that the ability to provide it when necessary is vital.