Colleagues, friends, and fellow activists are mourning the loss of Alan Benson, a
distinguished campaigner and advocate who played a pivotal role in the push for an
accessible transport system. Benson, co-chair of Transport for All (TfA), long-serving deputy
chair of London TravelWatch, and a founder member of the Campaign for Level Boarding,
passed away, leaving a profound impact on the disability rights and accessible transport
advocacy community.
A Sad Loss for Everyone
Transport for All expressed being “heartbroken” over his demise, describing him as an
“astounding campaigner and ambassador for the disabled community.” Benson, who was
awarded an MBE for his services to public transport for disabled people last year, began his
activism after being stranded on a train platform in the lead-up to the London 2012
Paralympics.
In addition to his roles at TfA and London Travel Watch, he co-chaired the Department for
Transport’s inclusive transport stakeholder group. Reflecting on his journey, Benson
emphasised the importance of campaigns that instigate significant change, even if not
immediately evident to the general public. He highlighted achievements such as the
introduction of a new standard of lift signage across the London Underground, enhancing
accessibility for many disabled individuals.
Benson underscored the significance of altering attitudes and industry standards to bring
about lasting, widespread change. He attributed much of his success to collaboration, co-
production, and the support of fellow campaigners, organisations, charities, transport
operators, and allies.
He Dedicated His Life to Bringing About Change
Recognised for his exceptional contributions, Benson was granted the freedom of the
borough of Richmond, where he resided. The tributes pouring in from online messages and
industry professionals reflect the profound impact he had on both disabled activism and the
transport sector.
Andy Lord, London’s transport commissioner, described his death as “absolutely devastating
and heart-breaking,” while Peter Wilkinson, managing director of passenger services at the
Department for Transport, hailed him as a “star” and a “truly committed and passionate
champion of passengers.”
London TravelWatch expressed being “devastated” by his passing, and Tony Jennings, a
fellow co-founder, praised Benson as a “pragmatic disability rights campaigner” and a
supportive advocate for disabled people.
Doug Paulley, another accessible transport campaigner, remembered Benson as “a true
diplomat, committed campaigner, and gentleman,” mourning his loss as “a giant loss” for
him, the groups he supported, and particularly for his friends and partner, Yvonne.
As an NDIS provider on the Gold Coast, we would just like to express our condolences to his
family and thank him for his years of service towards making the world a better place for
everyone no matter what their disability.