(In)accessibility of public transport and the mobility and self-determination of people with intellectual disabilities

Background Access to public transport is essential for social inclusion, independence, and quality of life. While transport accessibility for people with physical disabilities has been widely examined, the relationship between public transport accessibility and self-determination among people with intellectual disabilities remains underexplored. This study aimed to investigate how public transport accessibility influences mobility and self-determination from the perspectives of people with mild intellectual disabilities.Method A qualitative study informed by grounded theory was conducted. Semi-structured, in-depth interviews were carried out with 15 adults with mild intellectual disabilities living in urban areas in Poland. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and analyzed using open and focused coding.Results Four themes emerged: practicing self-determination through public transport use, aids and amenities facilitating accessibility, barriers limiting independent mobility, and participants’ suggestions for improvement. Accessible information systems, supportive technologies, and helpful staff interactions enhanced autonomy and confidence, while cognitive overload, system complexity, and stigmatizing social experiences undermined independent mobility.Conclusions The findings highlight the need to address cognitive, informational, and social dimensions of public transport alongside physical accessibility. Targeted staff training and user-friendly information tools may substantially improve mobility and self-determination among people with intellectual disabilities.