The measurement of transport disadvantage using self-reported
difficulties with aspects of transport is also a common research
0966-6923/$approach. This method benefits from a more individualistic focus
however it is limited by the perceptions and expectations of
respondents. It is common for people who have lived a lifetime
of immobility to have reduced expectations for travel. For example
the UK Social Exclusion Unit (2003) report that travel horizons for
low income groups can be limited by lack of knowledge, trust and
familiarity. In contrast urban commuters who have lived through
the rail and motor car ‘mobility revolution’ are highly vocal in
reporting mobility constraints. Researchers must make difficult value
judgements about self-reported transport disadvantage since
its association with the causes of social disadvantage is unclear
and imperfect.