Home to around 7.7 million people, the North West of England blends world famous cities like Liverpool and Manchester with stunning landscapes and a rich industrial heritage. But, beneath the surface, economic deprivation and stretched support services are resulting in high levels of child criminal exploitation, an increase in the number of young people in care and a rise in mental health challenges.
At Crewe station, we were joined by safeguarding leads from British Transport Police and Avanti West Coast, as well as the town’s mayor, to raise awareness of vulnerability on rail and how we can all play a part in keeping young people safe.
As the Youth Practice Service Manager for Scotland & Northwest England, Gemma ensures we are meeting the needs of children & young people across the UK in the most meaningful way, including liaising with other agencies and services. She is passionate about shining a light on safeguarding, ensuring every child feels safe and supported, and reinforcing that safeguarding is everyone's responsibility.
Andrea values being someone who can listen without judgement, provide positive encouragement and create a safe environment where young people feel comfortable being themselves. She finds seeing a young person overcome a challenge, achieve something they didn’t think they could or becoming more confident incredibly rewarding. Andrea also enjoys the energy, creativity and different perspectives young people bring.
Liz has been working with young people for many years and is still as passionate as when she first started. She finds it rewarding to support young people as they grow in confidence, discover their strengths and overcome challenges and enjoys being someone who can help young people believe in themselves and reach their potential.
The three-day route took cyclists from Ebbsfleet International to Dover, Dover to Brighton and Brighton to London Waterloo, raising vital funds to support vulnerable children.
Railway Children will feature in a special BBC Radio 4 Charity Appeal this September, shining a light on the challenges faced by street children in Tanzania and the life-changing support available through our work.
Railway Children marked 30 years of supporting vulnerable children with a special parliamentary reception at the House of Commons.
Subira is a family project worker for Railway Children in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Here is an exploration of her work and the impact that it has as she supports street-connected children and reunites families.
Learn about safeguarding and how it relates to child protection on transport networks.
No child wants to survive on the streets. And, through understanding and empowerment, together, we can ensure no child has to.
