The UK rail industry united in Manchester last night for the inaugural Railway Children Safeguarding Champions Celebration Event, paying tribute to the professionals dedicated to protecting vulnerable young people on the national network.
Over 70 representatives from across the rail sector, including staff from train operating companies (TOCs) and support services, attended the event, which celebrated those who have undergone specialist training with the charity Railway Children to better identify, understand, and respond to signs of risk.
The event, held on 17th October 2025, highlighted the critical role of frontline staff in safeguarding children who may be exploited, at risk of harm, or running away.
The Critical Need for Vigilance
Opening the evening, Rina Dabhi, UK Programme Director at Railway Children, underscored the gravity of the challenge, thanking attendees for their commitment.
“In the last year alone, over 11,000 vulnerable children and young people were reported to British Transport Police across the rail network. These figures underline how vital it is that rail staff know how to spot vulnerability — and know who to report it to.”
Rina Dabhi also reflected on the significant progress made over the past decade, noting the charity’s collaboration with industry partners to embed safeguarding best practice and help organisations achieve the coveted Safeguarding on Rail accreditation.
The celebration was proudly sponsored by Carlisle Support Services (CSS). Marc Greaves, Training Manager at CSS, addressed the audience, sharing how his company has championed a culture of safeguarding awareness.
“At CSS, we want every team member to feel confident and supported when it comes to safeguarding. Our partnership with the wider rail community reflects our shared commitment to keeping the network a safe environment for everyone.”
Safeguarding Champions Recognised
The ceremony featured several awards recognising excellence in driving safeguarding progress across the rail sector.
The Outstanding Contribution to Safeguarding award, presented by Carlisle Support Services, went to George Mitchell (Amulet), with Ash Hulse (TransPennine Express) and Niall Caddy (TransPennine Express) receiving Highly Commended honours.
The Unsung Hero Awards, presented by Railway Children Youth Ambassador Janet, recognised three key individuals:
- Mabs Alom (Carlisle Support Services)
- Janine Kilbride (Northern Rail)
- Adrian Brown (Greater Anglia)
Highly Commended in this category were Jenny McArthur (Amulet) and Marie Jones (Amulet).
Amplifying Young Voices
A poignant moment saw a special Outstanding Contribution to Railway Children Award presented to Corey, a Railway Children Youth Ambassador, for his three years of dedicated service to the programme.
Corey, who is now beginning his new role as a train dispatcher with Carlisle Support Services, shared how his involvement has shaped his future career path.
“The support from Railway Children has helped me build confidence, open doors, and live out my passion on the railway. It’s so important that staff know how to engage with and respond to vulnerable young people.”
Railway Children continues to offer a range of training, resources, and consultancy to help rail organisations meet their safeguarding goals and strengthen their response to vulnerability across the network. Organisations interested in training can contact Louise Thornton, Business Development Manager, at l.thornton@railwaychildren.org.uk.
