Youngster Supported By Mum And Legal Team In Setting Up Petition

A 13-year-old schoolboy is “doing what he does best” as he campaigns to make public transport more accessible to wheelchair users.

Just 17 months after legislation in his name came into effect around online bullying, Zach Eagling, from Liversedge, West Yorkshire, has launched a petition calling on the Government to make train and bus services, among others, more inclusive.

Zach lives with cerebral palsy following a brain injury at birth, with expert medical negligence lawyers at Irwin Mitchell securing him a settlement to fund the specialist care, support and therapies he requires for the rest of his life.

Medical negligence lawyers supporting Zach and mum Claire

The legal team are now backing Zach’s new campaign, alongside his mum Claire Keer, 43, and local MPs.

Rachelle Mahapatra is a specialist medical negligence lawyer at Irwin Mitchell who supports Zach and Claire.

Expert Opinion

“Zach never stops trying to make the world a better place and it’s wonderful to see his latest venture gathering the incredible support it has.

“The Equality Act 2010 says that companies that provide public transport services are required to take steps to make them accessible for disabled people. However, many are yet to become fully inclusive and accessible for all users, particularly those with disabilities. Zach is now fighting to change this and I’m backing him all the way.” Rachelle Mahapatra

Public transport campaign: Zach Eagling's story

Zach also has epilepsy and walked laps of his garden during lockdown in the summer of 2020 in aid of the Epilepsy Society.

He raised £20,000 for the charity, however he also became a target of trolls who sent him flashing images.

As a result, Zach’s Law came into effect. It officially became legislation across England, Wales and Northern Ireland in September 2023, with online bullying offences now incurring up to a five-year prison sentence.

Zach’s now calling for three main improvements to public transport.  These are more accessible seats, better assistance from staff at stations and airports, and greater care taking wheelchairs on and off, particularly from the hold of a plane.

Zach reveals struggles for those with disabilities in using buses and trains

He said: “I like getting out and about, but with cerebral palsy it’s not easy, especially when I have to factor in the issues of accessing public transport.

“Quite often, it’s members of the public that end up helping me and mum, and while I’m grateful that they do, it shouldn’t be the case.

“So many people need to use buses and trains on a regular basis.  This includes people with disabilities and I want to be able to help make the process easier on them.”

Claire added: “Zach is back doing what he does best – helping others – and I couldn’t be prouder.

“Zach’s Law made him realise that there’s nothing he can’t do if he puts his mind to it, and righting the wrongs of public transport was next on his list.  It’s something that we’ve struggled with for many years.

“We’re so thankful for all the support we’ve had so far and can’t wait to see if, and what, changes are made.”

How to sign Zach's petition

So far, more than 900 people have signed the petition. Zach needs 10,000 to take it to Government.

Find out more and sign Zach’s petition

Find out more about Irwin Mitchell's expertise in supporting families affected by cerebral palsy at our dedicated birth injuries section. Alternatively, to speak to an expert contact us or call 0370 1500 100.