Northern is now in the process of training their 7,000 members of staff in how to spot passengers who may be vulnerable and ensuring that staff have the confidence to intervene where necessary.

All members of Northern staff speak to millions of passengers every year and it is crucial for them to be able to spot those who may be subject to intimidation, abuse or addiction.

Northern wants to make certain that their staff can correctly spot passengers who may be vulnerable so are teaching them the right skills along with next step advice which can help the person in need.

This essential training is being provided by the charity ‘Railway Children‘ whose main focus is on identifying those at risk and aiding with intervention early on.

Back in 2020, British Transport Police were involved in 25,997 cases covering mental health crisis, domestic abuse, county line activity and child exploitation.

If while travelling, you need help you can contact British Transport Police via text message on 61016 or call 0800 40 50 40.

Tricia Williams, chief operating officer at Northern said: “Our customers are at the heart of everything we do – and being able to spot those in need, whether they approach our teams for help or not, is really important.”

Commenting on the roll-out of training by Northern, Acting Superintendent Dave Rams at BTP, said: “We welcome this positive action by Northern.

“Rail staff are the eyes and ears of the rail network and if they report their concerns, they will help us protect people.”