Foundation 92, in collaboration with leading train operators, British Transport Police (BTP), and Network Rail,has announced the launch of a pioneering education programme aimed at engaging young people in positive activities and behaviour change mentoring in and around the railway in Greater Manchester.
The first of its kind in the UK, this innovative initiative brings together key stakeholders to address the issue of reckless behaviour on the railway, promoting responsible rail safety, and engaging with young people involved in negative activities while raising awareness of the serious risks associated with the railway.
Latest figures from Network Rail show that in the North West there were 2,098 trespass incidents on the region’s rail network in the last financial year (2022/23), 22% per cent of which (around 471) involved young people under the age of 18.
Tom Hutton, Head of Foundation 92, stated, “We are thrilled to be partnering with Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry Trains, Northern Trains, TransPennine Express, Network Rail, and British Transport Police on this ground-breaking initiative.
“Alongside offering young people a 4-week educational behaviour change programme, which provides them with an immersive experience of how the railway operates, Youth Workers will be present across the network seven days a week, helping young people identify risk alongside helping them recognise how their conduct can both positively and negatively impact community safety on the Railway.”
The educational programme will include visits to maintenance depots, and operations centres, to provide a first-hand understanding of the railway, as well as an insight into the roles and responsibilities of those who work in the industry
The programme is set to commence on 1st September, with 7-day per week deployments across the Greater Manchester train network, enabling us to reach and positively impact a wide range of young people in the community.
Nick Smith, Regional Growth Manager at Avanti West Coast, said: “We’re proud to be joining train operators and industry partners across the region to help Foundation 92 with this great project. We’re always keen to play our part in educating those who choose to take risks or cause a nuisance on the railway by highlighting the impact their actions can have on others.
“By connecting young people to these opportunities and giving them a different insight into the railway, we hope to make a positive difference to our people, customers and communities, while ensuring our rail network remains as safe as possible.” This transformative partnership marks a significant step towards building a safer and more responsible railway environment for our young people, fostering positive change, and empowering them with essential knowledge and skills for their future.
