Rail users on Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) are now able to donate their Delay Repay compensation payment to charity thanks to a new partnership that has been made with Samaritans and Railway Children.

Passengers claiming compensation online through GTR’s Delay Repayment scheme – under which GTR customers across Thameslink, Gatwick Express, Southern and Great Northern are entitled to financial compensation if their journey is delayed by a time period of 15 minutes or longer – it is possible to elect to give their refund to Samaritans or Railway Children, instead of accepting the payment for themselves.

The new donation scheme, devised at the suggestion of GTR customers, builds on existing relationships that the service provider has with these charities and it aligns with the operator’s corporate pledge of social responsibility in order to help to improve the lives of those who are vulnerable people within society.

Railway Children is a charity that fights for children at risk of abuse and exploitation on the streets of Africa, India and here within the United Kingdom. Their work in this country mainly focuses on those finding themselves in some form of danger in and around the transport network, making sure they are kept safe.

Every three months, GTR and the partner charities will be publishing the total amounts that have been donated by GTR customers.

What did the officials say?

Ruth Sutherland, Samaritans Chief Executive Officer said:

“Thanks to GTR and the generosity of its passengers we can raise awareness of our services and raise vital funds,” “When someone is feeling overwhelmed, it’s vital that they are listened to and supported to work through difficult thoughts and feelings. With our confidential 24-hour service, available 365 days a year, we offer a safe place for people to talk any time they like, in their own way – about whatever’s getting to them.”

Railway Children’s Corporate Partnerships Manager Dave Ellis said:

“The Delay Repay scheme and the money donated by GTR customers will have a very real impact upon the lives of vulnerable children here in the UK as well as in India and East Africa. It will also create an even greater awareness of the essential work of Railway Children.”

GTR’s Corporate Social Responsibility Manager Katherine Cox said:

“We received feedback from our customers that they would like to have the option to donate their delay repay compensation to charity if they experience a delay. We’re really pleased to partner with Samaritans and Railway Children, who will welcome donations from our customers. Both organisations have a long-standing relationship with the rail industry and make a real difference to the lives of the people they work with.”

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