Commuters are being urged to help spot runaway children this Christmas as warning signs pop up at train stations across the country. It comes after shocking new research revealed that one child runs away from home every five minutes, yet, a huge 78% of Brits admit they couldn’t confidently spot a runaway, while 58% say they wouldn’t know what to do if they suspected a child needed help.
Avanti West Coast is working with Railway Children to help raise awareness and make a change. Platforms on the West Coast Main Line now feature posters and notices aimed at raising awareness of vulnerable youngsters travelling alone. The rail operator has also launched a short film, written and directed by BAFTA award-winning filmmaker Daisy-May Hudson, to hammer home the message.
The movie – called ‘Your Presence Is Presents Enough’ – encourages passengers to look out for vulnerable youngsters who may be fleeing home.
It is now being shown at stations across the network, while benches at Crewe and Stockport display seat signs reserved for ‘runaways’ to grab commuters’ attention.
Travellers are being urged to learn the Railway Children’s AT RISK acronym – Attitude, Time of day, Relationship, Instinct, Safety, Keeping a low profile – to help identify a child in trouble. Adults who notice warning signs are advised to alert staff or text the British Transport Police on 61016.
Natalie Richbell-Beer, Safeguarding and Crime Manager at Avanti West Coast, said: “We’re proud to partner with Railway Children to raise awareness about this important issue.
“Everyone has a role to play in protecting vulnerable children – especially at Christmas when the railway is at its busiest, which is why we’re asking people to look up during their journey.
“Our film aims to give those travelling by rail the confidence to spot the signs and report concerns, so we can help keep even more young people safe.”
Rob Capener, Chief Executive at Railway Children, said: “Children can be at risk on the UK transport network for a variety of reasons, so knowing what to look out for is essential.
“We’re proud to work with Avanti West Coast to raise awareness of how the public can help. If a child appears at risk please tell station staff or text British Transport Police on 61016.
“Your vigilance could help keep a vulnerable child safe.”
Daisy-May Hudson said: “I am very proud of this film and of reminding people what’s important this Christmas – human connection and looking out for one another.
“It has been a joy creating this with the lived-experience ambassadors to centre what is the most important part of their story, and using that to create something which I hope really strikes a chord with people at this time.
“I find there is great power in film to deeply see people, and I hope this film captures what it can sometimes feel like during this season – but that the hope is always found in how we relate to one another and how we can make each other feel.”
