CrossCountry helps improve rail safety for young people

Aimed at enhancing rail safety awareness, a collaborative partnership between CrossCountry and the Rail Safe Friendly Programme has successfully reached over 60,000 young people across 150 schools in the UK. 

Led by technology company LearnLive, the Rail Safe Friendly Programme provides virtual resources and materials on rail safety to schools, offering both live and on demand sessions. Following successful participation in the programme, schools can achieve bronze, silver or gold status. 

Working with schools across the country, alongside individuals, educators and parents, the initiative aims to raise awareness of potential dangers on the railway and the impact of trespassing – and encourages individuals to navigate the network safely. 

In the past year alone, the partnership has helped reach 63,735 young individuals in 150 sponsored schools with crucial rail safety awareness and understanding. 

By 2027, the Rail Safe Friendly Programme hopes to have all UK schools enrolled in the programme to ensure every child and young person is well equipped to travel on trains safely. 

Alex Bray, Stakeholder Liaison Manager at CrossCountry, commented: “The Rail Safe Friendly Programme has played a crucial role in addressing the pressing issues surrounding rail safety. We have identified several hotspots where incidents are prevalent, particularly noting a troubling rise in trespassing among young people. 

“Trespassing poses significant risks not only to the individuals involved but also disrupts the entire railway system, affecting countless others who rely on safe and efficient train services. 

“The programme serves as an excellent initiative for sharing vital information about rail safety. By working with various stakeholders, we can strengthen our outreach efforts and ultimately contribute to saving lives.”