Shared e-bike operator Bolt has signed London Sight Loss Councils’ E-Bike Charter, which was created by blind and partially sighted volunteers to address the barriers and safety risks caused by poorly parked e-bikes.
Bolt operates shared e-bikes in Westminster, Hammersmith & Fulham, and Kensington & Chelsea, and will work with London Sight Loss Councils to put the Charter’s principles into practice across its service.
Sight Loss Councils, funded by Thomas Pocklington Trust, are regional groups led by blind and partially sighted volunteers. Together, they use their lived experience to shape inclusive services, influence decisions, and ensure accessibility in local communities.
London Sight Loss Councils developed the e-bike charter in response to growing concerns about e-bikes being left blocking pavements, dropped kerbs and doorways. Poorly parked bikes put blind and partially sighted people at risk of trips, falls and collisions, and undermine their confidence to get around the city independently.
By signing the Charter, Bolt joins other shared e-bike operators in committing to its six key principles, which cover responsible parking, rider education and working with local authorities to keep streets clear and safe for everyone.
Haren Thillainathan, South West London Sight Loss Council volunteer, said: “I’m pleased that Bolt has agreed to sign up to our E-Bike Charter and work with us to help ensure e-bikes are operated safely and responsibly for the benefit of blind and partially sighted pedestrians in London. Bolt’s commitment is a promising start to a collaborative relationship with London Sight Loss Council, and I look forward to building on this partnership in the future.”
Georgia Heathman, UK Policy Lead at Bolt, added: “Blind and partially sighted people should be able to move around London safely and with confidence. Signing the E-Bike Charter is a commitment to play our part in making that happen, from how our bikes are parked to how we educate our riders.
“We’re grateful to London Sight Loss Councils for their leadership on this issue, and we look forward to working closely with their volunteers to make sure our service works for the whole community.”
