With thousands expected to travel by train this festive season, Railway Children, LNER and safeguarding partners have joined together to raise awareness of vulnerability on the railway and help protect at risk children and young people.
Author: Amy Wright | Date: 8th December 2025
Travelling from Edinburgh Waverley to London King’s Cross, representatives from Railway Children joined LNER colleagues to engage with customers on board and at LNER-managed stations along the East Coast Main Line.
The team promoted our At Risk, Right Here Right Now campaign, sharing vital information on how to spot signs of vulnerability and what steps to take to keep young people safe.
Along the journey, other safeguarding agencies and charities added their voices to the call for vigilance during the festive season. More than 30 members from the Yorkshire branches of Soroptimist International joined the group at York Station to show their support.
Joe Clay, Safeguarding Partnership Programme Manager for Railway Children, said: “We’ve spoken to hundreds of LNER customers on board trains and at stations about the signs of vulnerability and asked them to keep an eye out for young people who may be at risk of harm as they travel this Christmas. The railway network is an essential part of everyday life for many but can attract vulnerable children and young people wanting to escape from a potentially harmful situation. By working together, we can make sure they get the help and support they need.”
Jim Rawcliffe, Security and Safeguarding Manager at LNER, added: “Over the past 12 months, LNER colleagues have located more than 120 missing people and through reports to British Transport Police, helped over 500 individuals access support services. Working closely with Railway Children and other safeguarding partners reinforces our commitment to making the railway a safe way for everyone to travel, especially during the busy festive season when risks can increase.”
To report someone who appears vulnerable or at risk while travelling, contact British Transport Police by texting 61016 or calling 0800 40 50 40.
CrossCountry’s contribution is helping expand opportunities for young people through Railway Children’s Youth Platform and Youth Ambassador Project.
With thousands expected to travel by train this festive season, Railway Children, LNER and safeguarding partners have joined together to raise awareness of vulnerability on the railway and help protect children at risk.
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