Audio key fobs for real time bus information

If you are blind or have sight loss, you can get a small key fob that speaks real-time bus information. It helps you travel around the city. The system works with 210 Real Time Bus Information units across Portsmouth.

What the key fob tells you

The key fob gives audio messages about:

• which bus stop you are at
• where the next bus is going
• when the next bus is due

You can use the audio key fob at bus stops fitted with an audio Real Time Information point. Some of these stops include:

• Commercial Road North
• Commercial Road South
• Cosham Interchange
• QA Hospital
• The Hard
• St Mary’s Road
• Hilsea Lido
• Fratton

Turn it on:

1. on the top of the key fob there are two buttons – one on the left and one on the right
2. press both buttons at the same time to turn it on
3. you will hear a double bleep and the blue light will flash twice

Use it at the bus stop:

1. stand near a bus stop that has an audio Real Time Information screen (about 3 to 5 metres away)
2. the screen will chime – it will then say where the bus stop is and which direction it serves
3. press the left button to hear a location message
4. press the right button to hear live bus times

Turn it off:

1. press both buttons at the same time to turn it off
2. you will hear one bleep and the light will flash once

To apply, email publictransport@portsmouthcc.gov.uk with the following documents:

• your contact phone number (up to date)
• proof that you live in Portsmouth (for example, Council Tax bill, Housing Benefit, rent book, electoral registration, or utility bill)
• proof of eligibility – a clear scan or photo of one of these: CVI certificate, B8 Certificate, yellow card from social services, or blind person’s bus pass

If you think you’re eligible but do not have these documents, please contact us.

If you do not have email, ask a family member or friend to email for you. They should start the email with: “Sent on behalf of [your name]”.

Technical issues

• Message not playing: If you press a button and nothing plays, wait a few seconds. If it still does not play, press the button once more. Do not press the buttons over and over quickly, as this can delay the messages.
• Battery flat: The key fob uses a CR2032 battery. You can replace it yourself, take it to a jeweller’s, or contact us.
• Cannot switch off: If there is no bleep and the light does not flash when you press both buttons, wait 10 seconds and try again.

General advice

• Change of address: Please contact us to let us know.
• Lost or damaged fob: If your fob is lost or damaged, the replacement cost is £10. Contact us to arrange a replacement. If the fob has a technical fault, we will replace it for free.
• Save battery: Turn the fob off when you are not using it.
• Hold it the right way: Keep the key ring closest to you and the buttons facing up.
• Keep it dry: Do not put the fob in water.

If you need to get in touch with us, you can contact us:

• by phone: 023 9282 9923
• email publictransport@portsmouthcc.gov.uk
• post:
  Concessionary Fares
  Portsmouth City Council
  Civic Offices
  Guildhall Square
  PO1 2AL