Train operating staff are greeting passengers at London’s St Pancras station today to raise awareness about the vital work of the Samaritans.
Employees from East Midlands Trains, South West Trains, First Capital Connect, First Great Western and Network Rail will support Samaritans volunteers at the station as part of Samaritans’ Awareness Day.
Samaritans’ volunteers will be present at the station throughout the day to talk to passengers about the round the clock helpline for anyone struggling to cope.
Darren Ward, East Midlands Trains Head of Operations Strategy, said: “East Midlands Trains has been working very closely with Samaritans for almost five years now. The enthusiasm, experience and support they provide is making a pronounced difference in this area of rail safety, and we’re thrilled to work alongside them.”
Samaritans run two separate courses in tandem with the rail industry to both help empower employees to recognise and approach suicidal people on the network and to provide trauma support.
Rachel Kirby-Rider, Samaritans’ director of fundraising, said: “Thank you to everyone involved in today’s event. Our work with the rail industry is something we are really proud of and today’s event is an example of the commitment shown by everyone who is part of it.
“Our volunteers answer millions of calls for help every year, and funds generated from this event will allow us to continue to deliver round the clock support to anyone struggling to cope.”
Justin Page, area director from Network Rail, added: “Our partnerships with the Samaritans and East Midlands Trains are making vital improvements to how we help vulnerable people who come onto the railway. We hope that this event will help to further increase awareness of the support which is available.”
