Rail Responders

Whilst rail travel is very safe, sadly stations and railway lines are locations where some people suffer injury and death due to accidents and illness. 

 

The British Transport Police are responsible for public safety on and near the railways. They work in partnership with communities, and approached Taunton Team Chaplaincy to ask if volunteers from local churches would be willing to offer a welcome and caring presence at Taunton station, recognising that some people experiencing mental health problems might be drawn to the railway. Drawing on many years of experience offering a listening ear, prayer and compassion in workplaces and various community locations, Taunton Team Chaplaincy recruited a team of 12 volunteers. Wearing a distinctive blue uniform Rail Responders seek to respond to human need with God’s love, following Jesus’ call to care for those who suffer and struggle with many aspects of life.  

Training has been provided by the Samaritans to help them engage appropriately with anyone showing signs of distress or anxiety. By means of regular patrols at the station and the Obridge viaduct nearby, a simple, friendly approach and a listening ear, is available. Passengers have welcomed the initiative with many appreciating the offer of prayer or a chance to share about personal concerns. Anyone indicating ongoing needs is signposted to the Samaritans’ 24/7 phone line (116 123), other mental health charities or NHS services. 

The experiences of similar schemes piloted elsewhere in the UK have shown that a timely intervention can prevent someone making a decision which has irrevocable consequences. If it is followed up with an appropriate referral to professional support, most will not repeat their action.

 

Like the now familiar Street Pastors, Rail Responders do not preach but they provide a caring, listening and reassuring presence in an informal manner. Working in teams of three or four, each volunteer patrols at least once a month, at different times of the day. They also help rail operators spread basic safety messages among young people who sometimes play dangerously near fast trains.  

Similar schemes elsewhere in the UK have brought the added bonus of a reduction in crime and anti-social behaviour on and near the stations they visit. 

For further details or to find out how to join the Rail Responders team visit www.tauntontc.co.uk or call 07581 424 420