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A woman who created a Tube badge to help people with hidden illnesses and health problems get a seat is now rolling the scheme out across England.
It follows a “surprisingly massive” uptake of the badge, which is similar to TfL’s “baby on board” signs for pregnant women.
Since launching earlier this year, commuters with an invisible health issue have been able to approach sitting travellers wearing “Happy to move for you” badges. The idea is to ask for a seat without feeling any awkwardness.
Brainchild Ellie Kime, 23, said the idea for the creation came while travelling with her stepmother, who has a hidden condition.
She was “overwhelmed – in a good way” when passengers started placing orders and has now decided to take the scheme nationwide.
“My phone started blowing up in my hand with orders after someone tweeted about it,” she told the Standard.
“I had a little cry in the rain and did some croche to deal with it.
“I have had a London-centric view but after more people have got in contact, the badges have now been rolled out in France and Monaco.
“I am working with people and taking it to councils across England. In some places commuters don’t really understand the ‘baby on board’ badge so it is all about getting the message out there.”
Ms Kime said proceeds from the blue and pink badges will go towards disability charity Scope.
The “seed of the idea” for the badge came after she “got into a few barneys” while travelling with her stepmother on public transport.
“Some people were ridiculous and wouldn’t give her a seat when she asked,” Ms Kime reflected.
“Her condition is not obvious but people sometimes just thought she was drunk because her balance was off.”
The “Happy to move for you” badges can be bought for £3.50 from The Enthusiast.
