TfL unveils inspiring posters by young Londoners to highlight priority seating
Transport for London (TfL) is celebrating International Day of Persons with Disabilities by displaying impactful posters created by young Londoners across its network. The designs, aimed at encouraging passengers to offer their seats to those in need, will be featured on buses, Tubes, trains and trams starting today, 3 December.
Priority seats are clearly marked on all TfL services, intended for anyone who requires them, including passengers with non-visible disabilities. The posters were the result of a competition launched during Priority Seating Week in September, targeting children aged 6-14. Participants were tasked with raising awareness of the importance of these seats through creative and informative designs.
The winning entries were chosen by TfL’s Independent Disability Advisory Group (IDAG), which comprises 13 disability experts who advise TfL on policies affecting disabled passengers. The winners—Cecilia Lewis, 8, Lily Watkins, 11, and Ayaan Hoque, 13—were awarded family tickets to Merlin London attractions. Cecilia’s artwork highlighted the value of kindness, Lily focused on hidden disabilities, and Ayaan emphasised the strength found in uplifting others.
Runners-up Diani Dodia, Georgina Joseph and Ayah Abrahams also earned recognition, alongside highly commended participants Harrison Steele, Willow Bear and Sophia Croall. These talented entrants received tickets for the IFS Cloud Cable Car or the London Transport Museum.
In addition to the poster campaign, TfL has extended its Access DLR trial until April. This initiative allows passengers to book travel assistance on the Docklands Light Railway online or by phone, aiming to improve accessibility and gather further customer feedback.
These efforts underline TfL’s ongoing commitment to inclusivity, ensuring the transport network remains accessible and welcoming to all.
Mark Evers, Transport for London's Chief Customer Officer, said: “We were extremely impressed by the thoughtfulness and creativity that shone through every poster design we received, and I know that our Independent Disability Advisory Group had a very hard time choosing just a few winners from the colourful and inspiring selection of entries! It was wonderful to see the children’s awareness of the diverse range of needs amongst us all and their clear reminder that looking up and offering someone a seat can make a huge difference to their journey – a great message for us all.”
Deputy Mayor for Transport, Seb Dance, said: “Making London’s transport network as accessible as possible is a top priority for the Mayor. The artwork from these talented competition-winners will encourage Londoners to think of others and offer their seat to someone who may need it more than them. It’s also great news that the Access DLR trial is being extended until April to enable TfL to gather more feedback, as we work to build a fairer and more accessible London for everyone.”
