CrossCountry donates £10,000 to Strengthen Railway Children’s Youth Platform
CrossCountry’s contribution is helping expand opportunities for young people through Railway Children’s Youth Platform and Youth Ambassador Project.
We recently collaborated with other members of the Bishop Line Community Rail partnership to speak to more than 100 Year 8 students about the importance of rail safety and mental wellbeing.
Date: 5th March 2025 | Author: Con Enzler
The Rail Safety and Careers Event aimed to inspire the next generation of rail professionals and promote safety on rail.
Students from secondary schools along the Bishop Line spent a day taking part in interactive sessions including virtual reality simulations and drone demonstrations highlighting rail safety.
Railway Children workers spoke about mental wellbeing and how to identify safe people and spaces in stations and on trains.
The students completed a “MySkills” quiz to explore personality traits and career options, and took part in workshops around mental well-being and the impact of anti-social behaviour. They also had the opportunity to design anti-trespass messaging and learn about the diverse range of careers within the rail industry.
Professionals from various sectors, including train drivers, travel safe officers, British Transport Police officers, and those in planning and strategy roles, shared their experiences and insights.
Representatives from local colleges, including Bishop Auckland College and Darlington College, were on hand to provide information about relevant courses and pathways into the rail industry.
“The aim of our workshop was to empower them with the tools to seek support and take action before reaching a crisis."
"It's inspiring to see the rail industry investing in the future – not just in careers but in the safety and wellbeing of the next generation. ”
Alex Sperr, Railway Children Community Engagement Officer
Alex, one of our Community Engagement Officers, said the event was a huge success.
She said it was a great opportunity to engage with young people about the importance of mental health and wellbeing.
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.
LNER colleagues completed intensive Railway Children safeguarding training to learn how to protect children at risk.
Read our guide to claiming your compensation and learn how to easily donate it to vulnerable children.
Martha’s story shows the amazing change girls can create when they’re given the chance.
If the news is getting you down, you’re not alone. Here are some tips to help you cope.