Homelessness on UK Railways Soars Amid Pandemic
Homelessness in the UK is hitting the rails hard. Reports show rough sleeping up by a massive 36% during the pandemic. The railway network has become a hotspot for vulnerable people forced to sleep rough. Now, Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR), the country’s biggest rail operator, has pledged to tackle the crisis head-on.
GTR Signs Groundbreaking Rough Sleeping on Rail Charter
GTR is the first train company to back the new Rough Sleeping on Rail Charter, launched by Network Rail. This industry-first initiative aims to protect homeless people and communities nationwide. Chief Operating Officer Steve White signed the charter, witnessed by NOAH, a Luton-based homelessness charity and official GTR partner.
The charter forms part of a wider drive to help rough sleepers find real routes off the streets and out of homelessness, especially around Britain’s railways.
GTR’s Big Push: From Socks to Staff Training
GTR is no stranger to helping the homeless. Last year’s successful Great Sock Appeal collected over 4,000 pairs of socks for shelters along GTR routes. This year, alongside signing the charter, the company is launching e-learning for all staff. The training equips employees with the tools to support homeless people they meet on the tracks and stations.
“Homelessness is a significant issue for society. As another winter approaches, I am proud to be signing the charter on behalf of Govia Thameslink Railway to support the ambition to break the cycle of homelessness and end rough sleeping for good,” said Steve White, GTR COO.
Support from Top Officials and Charity Leaders
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps welcomed GTR’s move: “Every signature on the Rough Sleeping on Rail Charter moves us closer to ending rough sleeping this Parliament. With winter coming, it’s vital vulnerable people on our railways get the support they need.”
NOAH Chief Executive David Morris praised the partnership: “The new training will educate staff about StreetLink, a key tool in connecting rough sleepers with support. We applaud GTR for adopting the charter early and committing to help disadvantaged people through our social enterprise, Rainbow.”
Local MP Rachel Hopkins added: “GTR’s commitment to this charter and staff training is vital. NOAH plays a crucial role in our community, and this partnership helps those with nowhere else to turn.”
What Is the Rough Sleeping on Rail Charter?
Unveiled by Network Rail in October 2020, the charter focuses on educating railway staff and empowering them to support homeless individuals. It also strengthens ties with homeless charities to provide practical help around the rail network.
GTR’s move sets a powerful example for the entire rail industry to take homelessness seriously and act fast to safeguard vulnerable lives on the tracks.
