Information for young people
Who we are
Railway Children is a children’s charity that helps and supports young people to stay safe. We are independent and not part of social services or the police.
What we do
British Transport Police tell us about young people they have spoken to because they felt they were at risk. We contact you to see if you need any help.
How we can help
We support young people who have been found in dangerous situations at train stations or on the railways or who may be going through a tough time with their emotional wellbeing.
Young people are found at risk on the railways for different reasons. They might be running away from a difficult situation, be involved in county lines or other exploitation or simply be feeling low and need to get away.
Whatever the problem, we visit young people who are referred to us, usually in the place where they live, to find out how we can help.
We can then support the young person for weeks or months, depending on what help they need and want. Our staff are experienced youth workers, teachers, family workers and social workers. They work directly with young people and their families to help make positive changes and can also talk to other services such as schools, social workers or the police to ensure the young person is getting the support they need.
We will always be led by the young person in terms of what help they need and how they want it to be delivered.
We’re here to support you in many ways, including:
- Speaking to others on your behalf
- Helping with school-related issues
- Supporting you in meetings with professionals
- Connecting you with support groups
- Helping you process your thoughts and feelings
- Prioritising your wellbeing
- Working with you on the issues that matter most to you
We can meet up, chat on the phone, and most importantly, listen—so you can share any challenges you’re facing and decide what happens next.
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“Railway Children really helped me when I wasn’t doing well and they completely benefitted my mental health when nobody else did, so I would definitely recommend.”
Sources of free, confidential help
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. Whether you need immediate advice, someone to listen, or ongoing support, these helplines and text services are here for you. Reach out when you need to—you’re not alone.
The Mix
Support for under 25’s. 0808 808 4994 open from 3pm to 12am every day and also a crisis messenger text service provides free, 24/7 crisis support across the UK if your aged 25 or under and are experiencing any painful emotion or are in crisis, you can text THEMIX to 85258.
Young Minds
Provides free, 24/7 text support for young people across the UK experiencing a mental health crisis. Text YM to 85258. All texts are answered by trained volunteers, with support from experienced clinical supervisors. Texts are free from EE, O2, Vodafone, 3, Virgin Mobile, BT Mobile, Giff Gaff, Tesco Mobile and Telecom Plus.
CEOP (report abuse)
CEOP help children stay safe online. If anybody acts inappropriately towards you or another child or young person online (such as sexual chat or being asked to do something that makes you feel uncomfortable); you can report it here.
Childline
If you are under 19 you can confidentially call 0800 11 11, chat online or email about any problem big or small. Childline is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Samaritans
You can access confidential emotional support at any time from Samaritans either by calling 116 123 or emailing jo@samaritans.org
Citizens Advice
You can call 0800 144 8848. The helpline is open 9 AM–5 PM, Monday to Friday, with the exception of public holidays.
Shout
Shout is the UK’s first 24/7 text service, free on all major mobile networks, for anyone in crisis anytime, anywhere. It’s a place to go if you’re struggling to cope and you need immediate help. Text 85258.
Anti-bullying alliance
Detailed information for anyone being bullied, along with advice for parents and schools. This resource signposts to various helplines and websites for further support.
Trussel Trust
There is help available if you need an emergency food parcel, food vouchers or to locate your nearest food bank.
If you are concerned about a young person missing or at risk on the rail network, please contact BTP on 61016 or 0800 40 50 40.
If it is an emergency always dial 999.
