A charity has teamed up with LNER and the British Transport Police to raise awareness of vulnerable children and young people on the railway.

Representatives from Railway Children called at Berwick station on a journey from Edinburgh Waverley to London King’s Cross on Thursday.

They spoke with passengers to promote their ‘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.

LNER's Jim Rawcliffe with Joe Clay and Suzi Lawrence from Railway Children at Berwick station.

placeholder image — LNER's Jim Rawcliffe with Joe Clay and Suzi Lawrence from Railway Children at Berwick station.

Christmas isn’t a happy time for everyone, and Railway Children are expecting a rise in demand for their services during this period.

Working closely with British Transport Police and train operators, the charity helps to safeguard children and young people who may be thinking about going missing or experiencing violence, abuse, or exploitation. They may be struggling with their mental health or suffering from issues such as bullying.

Over 10,000 reports of vulnerable children and young people are made to British Transport Police each year.

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.

LNER and Railway Children staff talking to a passenger at Berwick station.

"The railway network is an essential part of everyday life for many – and an easy way to get from A to B really quickly – 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 at the right time.”

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.