United Response is arranging a series of focus groups in January and February 2025 as part of our research into disability hate crimes on public transport. These follow our successful series of focus groups in November 2024.

We’re inviting disabled voices to attend these sessions, contribute to our study, and share their lived experiences. Your input will help inform solutions for more accessible public transport and a responsive criminal justice system that protects disabled people’s rights.

Read on to learn more about the focus groups, including the dates, locations, and how to register your interest.

Format

Each of our four focus groups will be in-person and take place on a single day for approximately 4 hours, starting in the mid-morning.

There will be breaks during the day, and refreshments will be served.

Each focus group will be capped at 8 people. Please let us know if you require a carer or support worker to join you on the day.

Discussions will concentrate on lived experiences of disability hate crime on public transport and proposals for reducing hate crime. Difficult talking points, including stories of past traumatic experiences, might be discussed.

Dates and Locations

We are hosting focus groups in four cities in England, spread out across the country to allow as many people to attend as possible:

Sessions may be oversubscribed, so registering your interest does not guarantee an invitation to attend.

Accessibility

Easy Read versions of the agenda and discussion points will be provided to attendees before the session.

Each of the venues selected is wheelchair-friendly and has accessible toilets.

A quiet space will be available for attendees if they require a sensory break. This may be used at any time.

We will endeavour to meet individual accessibility needs to the best of our ability. If you have any accessibility requirements, please email us at policy@unitedresponse.org.uk.

Compensation and Travel Stipend

We will provide compensation of £150 for your attendance on the day and a travel stipend to cover your journey. We will also cover travel costs for a carer/support worker to attend with you, if you require one.

United Response cannot organise travel for you.

Express your interest in taking part in a focus group

Disability Hate Crime Focus Group expression of interest

What is your full name?
Which region of England are you based in?
We have selected these regions based on the initial responses to our survey. The focus groups will explore the experiences of disabled people living here. If you are not based in any of these regions, this exercise is not suitable for you.
Have you ever had a negative experience using public transport in England related to your disability?
(Examples of negative experiences include being yelled at, threatened, verbal abuse, physical assault, or having your belongings stolen. These may be classed as disability hate crimes).
How would you describe your disability or chronic condition?
(a formal diagnosis of either is not necessary to submit your interest)
What is your age group?
Which gender do you identify as?
Which sexual orientation do you identify as?
Which ethnic group do you identify as?
Submit a qualitative answer of 250 words or less.
Drop files here or
Max. file size: 8 MB.
    Do you require a carer or support worker to join you on the day, if you are selected?

    If you have any questions about the focus groups or any other part of the research project, email us at policy@unitedresponse.org.uk.

    Focus Group Easy Read Explainer