Darcy’s story

Darcy was 14 when she ran away from home.

As arguments turned to fights and tensions over money escalated, she felt scared and as though she was part of the problem.

Darcy boarded a train and ended up lost, alone and far from home on a train station platform with no money and nowhere to go.

“When I got off the train, I didn’t know where I was or what I was going to do.”

Vulnerable children like Darcy are susceptible to being lured and groomed by those wishing to exploit them for their own gain. It’s vital that our teams reach them first.

Darcy's story

Thankfully, a member of the public noticed Darcy and reported her to rail staff. That prompted others to play their part to keep children safe, including British Transport Police (BTP), Railway Children workers and social services.

“BTP referred me to Railway Children,” says Darcy, “and they helped me work through things. They also arranged for a social worker to talk to me and my mum.”

Working in partnership with other services means we can ensure everyone’s needs are met and that a child is supported in all areas of their life.

In Darcy’s case, this meant providing mental health support for her mum and supporting the whole family to attend counselling.

We also spoke to Darcy’s school to ensure they were aware of the challenges at home and were giving Darcy the support she needed.

young person and their mum sitting on a sofa talking to a youth practitioner

“Life is so much better now. I won’t run away again”

Darcy’s story is an example of how, with everyone playing their part, we can protect more children at risk – and it all starts with you.

Your support of Railway Children was the vital first step in keeping Darcy safe.

But, every day, 28 more children and young people are found vulnerable and at risk on the UK rail network*. £25 could pay for an hour of one-to-one support for another vulnerable child, like Darcy, when they need it most.

Give a gift today

Girl looking at camera and smiling, wearing red jacket

*Names and details have been changed and models used to protect identities. *British Transport Police Fund, March 2022