How do people with disabilities work in London?

[draxdomax]

My joint health deteriorated a lot and I am actually having difficulties doing the weekly train trip to London (we live outside).

I can walk for 5-10 minutes but the London hassle which includes running to catch connections, standing in subs and going down stairs is too much for me.
Also, my situation is clearly worsening.

My disabilities aren't registered yet but they are very real to me. I am still pushing my GP to get me consultations with a specialist to see what's going on.
Meanwhile, I got approval from my team lead that I don't have to go to London.

All was fine and well until I got served notice from my program manager that they are sizing down and cutting me loose...

I am looking for jobs in my field and see very little outside of London... And job ads are adamant about the position being on-site, EG: "We need you 2 days in the London office per week, this is NOT a remote role!".

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How do people with mobility issues manage? Is it something that the candidate states in advance and hopes the employer makes an exception to their requirement (as if someone who thinks they need to put butts on seats will suddenly not think they need to do that...)

I've never actually seen people with mobility issues in the tube... Not even a person on crutches!

Access to work may be able to help eg funding taxis

I use a stick.and people are very kind and give up their seats for me often. I build in more time particularly if there are stairs to navigate. And I wear trainers which are not in the dress code but necessary. And my employer makes reasonable allowances. I'm not expected to do the more physical aspects of my job. I do what I am comfortable with. It's very different to being a 20 something working in London but actually there are many many people with mobility issues. It's been easier than I thought it would be. I think making the mental adjustment has been harder. I'm seen as a disabled older woman now. It's who I am.

I think you leave more time and accept that you can't run for a connection, you just wait for the next one. One of the good things about London is the tube is normally fairly frequent, it's not like you need to wait an hour for the next one.

People are in their own world and often don't notice someone who needs a seat, but if you ask someone in 99% of cases they will happily give up their seat.

You plan journeys differently, taking into account accessibility issues rather than the quickest route. For example you may travel to a tube station with lifts and from there get a bus rather than taking the tube to a station with stairs and then struggling.