Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR), operator of Gatwick Express, Great Northern, Southern and Thameslink services, has created a new Safeguarding Manager role to strengthen support for both passengers and staff across its network.
The role expands on the work previously undertaken by GTR’s Suicide Prevention Manager, the first position of its kind on the UK rail network. The remit now covers wider safeguarding responsibilities, reflecting the growing challenges faced by passengers and colleagues.
Rebecca Butler has been appointed to the new position, bringing more than 20 years of experience supporting young people and adults with needs including criminal and sexual exploitation, care experience, mental health issues and disabilities. In her previous role at Brighton & Hove City Council, she led three teams and oversaw safeguarding practice, audits, service accreditation and the launch of new services, as well as contributing to strategic boards.
At GTR, Rebecca works with operational managers on issues including suicide prevention, County Lines, homelessness and violence against women and girls. She collaborates with Network Rail, local authorities, the British Transport Police and charities such as the Samaritans and Railway Children, contributing to wider efforts to reduce antisocial behaviour across the network.
Rebecca said:
“I’m thrilled to have joined GTR as Safeguarding Manager. I’ve been truly inspired by the work I’m completing around the reports our staff submit every time they’ve worked to help a member of the public on the tracks or someone they’re concerned about, and the Life Saver Awards we present to our colleagues.
The dedication to passenger and colleague care, both on board and at stations, is truly impressive. I’m hoping to build stronger collaboration between the different agencies, such as social services and the British Transport Police, to ensure we do everything we can to avert a personal crisis.”
Safety, Health and Security Director Samantha Facey said:
“This appointment underscores our industry-leading commitment to improving overall safety and wellbeing for our passengers and colleagues. As a society, we are facing increasing challenges including mental health needs and criminal and sexual exploitation and violence against women and girls. Rebecca’s appointment ensures we have the best person in place to work towards keeping everyone safe on our network.”
