Authors: Sofoklis Alepis, Dr Konstantinos Malagas, Theodoros Lilas, Nikitas Nikitakos, Georgia Papadopoulou

Title: The Transport Experience of Persons with Reduced Mobility (PRMs): the Case of Greece

Abstract

Persons with reduced mobility (PRMs) are a significant proportion, about 40% of the population. Transport is basic for those people and provides services adjusted to their needs and by making interventions on this direction may facilitate them to travel more, easier and safer. These services may have significant impact to them, and to the whole economy. The current study focuses on the travel situation of the PRMs Greek reality. Several interviews were conducted with experts from the various fields, such as representatives of the various PRMs groups, transport and tourism professionals and academicians. The main findings of the study are that half of the participants are not aware of the PRMs, except for those who belong to the relevant group, all the participants agreed that the implementation of the European regulations is important by establishing a committee to promote the interests of the various PRMs groups. Also, interventions should be created to improve services, and Greece may attract those people from other countries offering adequate services. The study can be beneficial to policy makers and the service providers as they can successfully attract PRMs by achieving a competitive advantage.