Rail Industry Unites with Railway Children to Raise Safeguarding Awareness
National three-day campaign sees rail partners travel over 1,000 miles to help protect vulnerable young people.
Date: 06/8/2026
At Risk Right Here Right Now
Would You Know How to Spot a Young Person at Risk?
Every year, thousands of vulnerable children and young people travel across the UK’s rail network. Most are teenagers, but some are as young as 11 years old. For many, the journey they’re making could be taking them closer to danger.
Train stations and rail services can be places where vulnerable young people easily go unnoticed. They may be travelling alone, feeling frightened, or experiencing circumstances that put them at risk of harm.
By recognising the signs and taking action, you could help a young person get the support they urgently need.
Why might a young person be at risk?
Would you recognise a young person who appears lost, anxious or unsure where they’re going?
They may have run away from home, care, or a difficult situation. They could be frightened, confused and in need of someone they can trust.
Look out for young people who:
- Appear lost or distressed
- Seem unsure about their journey
- Are spending long periods alone at a station
- Look frightened or vulnerable
Would you recognise a young person who is being exploited?
Some children are groomed and manipulated into criminal activity. They may be forced to transport drugs or money, or be travelling to meet someone who poses a risk to their safety.
Look out for young people who:
- Appear anxious or fearful
- Are travelling alone but seem coached on what to say
- Have very little luggage despite making a long journey
- Appear controlled or intimidated by someone else
Would you notice a young person who is struggling emotionally?
Some young people come to stations because they feel overwhelmed, isolated or unable to cope. A simple intervention could connect them with someone who can help.
Look out for young people who:
- Appear withdrawn or upset
- Seem confused or overwhelmed
- Are lingering in the station without a clear purpose
- Look unsure where to go or what to do next
Sometimes a young person’s behaviour can be a sign that something deeper is wrong.
They may be struggling with challenges at home, feeling pressured by others, or trying to fit in. Early support can prevent situations from escalating and help them access the guidance they need.
Look out for young people who:
- Seem unsettled or distressed
- Are engaging in risky behaviour
- Appear vulnerable to peer pressure
- May be putting themselves or others at risk
The signs can be subtle
Not every vulnerable young person will ask for help.
The signs can be easy to miss:
- A child travelling alone
- A young person who appears lost or unsure of their route
- Someone trying to stay hidden
- A controlling or intimidating companion
- Unusual travel patterns, such as a one-way ticket purchased with cash
- Behaviour that seems out of character for their age
These signs may seem small, but together they can indicate that a young person needs help.
We need your help
Many people want to help but don't know what to look for or what action to take. That's why we've created the AT RISK campaign: a simple way to help passengers recognise the signs of vulnerability and take action when something doesn't seem right. Together, we can identify young people at a critical point in their lives and help them access safety, support and protection.
A – Attitude
Do they seem unsure of themselves, nervous or uncomfortable in their surroundings?
T – Time of Day
Are they travelling during school hours or late at night when you wouldn’t normally expect them to be?
R – Relationships
Does something feel wrong about the relationship they have with the person they’re travelling with? Are they unusually young to be travelling alone?
I – Instinct
Trust your instincts. Is there something about the situation that makes you think the young person may be frightened, intimidated or vulnerable?
S – Safety
Are they avoiding attention by staying in station corners, toilets or away from ticket barriers and staff?
K – Keeping a Low Profile
Are they avoiding attention by staying in station corners, toilets or away from ticket barriers and staff?
If you’re concerned
If you think a child or young person may be at risk, don’t ignore it.
Speak to a member of rail staff or a police officer, or contact the British Transport Police:
Call: 0800 40 50 40
Text: 61016
If you believe a young person is in immediate danger, always call 999.
Every vulnerable young person has a story. By noticing the signs, speaking up and taking action, you could help change the next chapter.
Spot a child at risk. Help change their story today.
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