Who we are
Through regular one-to-one sessions, Railway Children supports young people who are facing a difficult time or who have been found in difficult situations on the rail network. We work through problems together and help young people and their families build a better, brighter future.
We’re not social workers and we’re not the police. But we do collaborate with other professionals, including British Transport Police (BTP), to make sure young people stay safe and protected.
How will you support me?
We’re there for young people for as long as you need us, and can:
- work with you on issues that you care about
- help you work through your thoughts and feelings
- support you and your family to move forwards together
- support you in meetings with other professionals
- help you access support groups
- advocate for you around issues at school
- focus on building your wellbeing and self-esteem
- talk to other people on your behalf
What should I expect on my first visit from Railway Children?
If you’ve been referred to Railway Children, we’ll already know a bit about you through your referral notes.
What we won’t know is your version of your story, your thoughts and feelings and how you want us to support you.
Our initial visit will be to the place you live and will be about us getting to know you and what you want out of your referral, as well as you getting to know us and asking any questions.
During this initial meeting, we can also talk about where you’d feel most comfortable for future meet-ups.
Who will be supporting me?
Railway Children has a dedicated team of youth practitioners working across the UK to support, guide and empower young people when they need it most.
We work in the North West of England, Yorkshire and Humber, London and Glasgow.
Whether you need long or short-term support, in groups or one-to-one, we’ll work with you in the way you need.
Do you have any advice from young people you have supported in the past?
Harper (name changed) was referred to Railway Children by British Transport Police when she was 16, during a difficult time in her life.
Her advice is not to be scared to ask any questions you’ve got.
“Youth practitioners have probably heard them before,” she says, “and it’s better to get it all out than to keep things inside.”
If you need to get in touch, please email st@railwaychildren.org.uk
Someone will usually be available to reply between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday.
Keeping information consent form
How we use your information.
Case study consent form
Sharing information about you and your experience with Railway Children.
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Sharing images about your and your experience with Railway Children.
If in crisis:
- Call HOPELINEUK on 0800 068 4141 or the Samaritans on 116 123.
- Text SHOUT to Shout’s textline on 85258.
- Call the NHS on 111 and select option 2.
- In an emergency call 999 and ask for an ambulance or tell an adult you trust and ask them to call 999.