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Help us protect more children from trafficking this year

Protecting childhoods. Rebuilding
young lives.

We support vulnerable children alone and at risk on the streets and at transport hubs, leading change and building brighter futures across the world.

There for street-connected children 

Generational abuse normalises violence. Societal norms put children at risk. Gaps in child protection systems let the most vulnerable fall into danger. They take away children’s voices and make young people invisible.

But we see them. We hear them. And we’re there for them before they turn to the streets, when at risk and after we’ve got them to safety.

5681

Children supported in the UK, India and Tanzania in 2024

Help & Advice

Children can be at risk on the UK transport network for a variety of reasons. It's important for everyone to know what to look out for.

I feel alone and vulnerable – can you help me?

Our youth practitioners provide direct, one-to-one support for children and young people at risk on the rail network who may be struggling with their mental wellbeing or feeling isolated. If you’re struggling and need someone to talk to, help is available. There are free, confidential services offering support for young people facing challenges such as mental health issues, crisis situations, or emotional distress.

What do I do if my child runs away or is missing?

If your child has run away or gone missing, report them to the police as soon as possible, even if it’s not been 24 hoursYou do not need to wait. Call 999 if you believe they’re in immediate danger, or 101 if you’re not sure of their whereabouts but there’s no immediate risk.

What do I do if I see a vulnerable child on the transport network?

If you spot a young person who is showing signs of vulnerability or at risk of being exploited, please notify a staff member, or report this to British Transport Police call 0800 40 50 40 or text 6101. For any emergencies, dial 999. 

How to spot the signs

From the newsroom

Safeguarding on rail: National multi-station awareness day unites agencies to protect vulnerable young people

We collaborated with rail partners for a powerful Day of Action to raise awareness of safeguarding issues along the West Coast Main Line.

Date: 01/8/2025

A milestone in Tanzania: New national guidance for supporting at-risk children 

We’re proud to announce the launch of 14 new support desks across Tanzania, along with national guidelines for supporting vulnerable people.

Date: 28/7/2025

UK government launches Better Futures Fund to tackle child poverty 

Railway Children call for further measures to protect vulnerable young people from criminal exploitation.  

Date: 17/7/2025

Millie’s story: Coming out and being fully me

Millie, 20, shares the story of how she came out, and offers advice to anyone who might be going through a similar experience.

Date: 21/7/2025

Pride Month: Building Safe Futures for LGBTQ+ Young People

How we empower LGBTQ+ young people to embrace their true selves

Date: 25/6/2025

A Girl’s Journey from Collecting Waste to transforming her life

In a community near Ghaziabad station in India, poverty and child labour are daily realities. But one young girl refused to give up on her education.

Date: 06/6/2025
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Image collage showing young people in the UK, India and Tanzania

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