NORTHERN is training its 7,000-strong workforce in how to spot vulnerable people on the railway and have the confidence to intervene.

Northern’s conductors, customer service and station staff interact with tens of millions of passengers a year – among which will be people subject to abuse, addiction and intimidation.

The firm’s training is provided by the charity ‘Railway Children’, whose work focuses on identifying individuals at risk and helping with early forms of intervention.

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.”

Acting Superintendent Dave Rams, head of crime and public protection 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.”

In 2020, British Transport Police intervened in 25,997 cases involving vulnerable people. This included county lines activity, mental health crisis, domestic abuse, and child sexual exploitation.

Passengers have been urged to contact British Transport Police via text message on 61016 or call 0800 40 50 40.