ConnectAssist

Connectivity problems can become more noticeable when large numbers of people are trying to use mobile networks at the same time.

This can happen during:

• Football matches 
• Major sporting events 
• Concerts and festivals 
• Large public events 
• Peak travel periods 
• Unexpected disruption 

In the Liverpool City Region, major events can place significant pressure on transport hubs, surrounding routes and mobile networks. Stations and interchanges serving venues may become extremely busy before and after an event.

For disabled spectators, losing access to a digital ticket, accessible route information, live travel updates or contact with a support person can create a significant barrier.

Phase 2 will help us explore whether more resilient connectivity could support safer and more accessible journeys during these high-demand periods

Our long-term ambition is to help create transport environments where disabled people can depend on the digital services they need throughout their journey—even when networks are busy.

If testing is successful, the ConnectAssist approach could help:

• Improve access to live and accessible travel information 
• Support digital ticketing during busy periods 
• Reduce anxiety caused by unreliable connectivity 
• Help disabled people maintain contact with family, carers and support networks 
• Improve confidence when travelling to major events 
• Support more inclusive journeys to sporting and cultural venues 
• Help transport operators plan for accessibility as part of their digital infrastructure 
• Provide evidence that could inform future investment and wider deployment 

Although our initial focus is the Liverpool City Region, the learning could be relevant to transport operators, venues and major events in other parts of the UK.

Liverpool City Region has a strong sporting identity and attracts large numbers of visitors to major fixtures and events.

Improving connectivity along the complete journey—not only inside a venue—could help more disabled people attend sporting events confidently and independently.

In the future, ConnectAssist could support better-connected journeys between people’s homes, transport hubs, interchange points and sporting venues. It could also help transport operators and event organisers consider digital accessibility when planning for large crowds and temporary increases in demand.

Our aim is not simply to improve internet access. It is to help remove barriers to participation so that disabled people can enjoy the social, cultural and community benefits of major sporting events.