Missing People have partnered with South Western Railway (SWR) on a new campaign to encourage anybody who is thinking of going missing, or is already missing, to find us first.
Posters across the South Western Railway network and announcements at the operator’s flagship stations will encourage people to contact our free, confidential Helpline on 116 000.
There is a strong link between transport and missing people. Trains are a means by which people can go missing, taking one-way journeys away from home. Stations and trains can also be safe havens, with shelter and amenities such as Wi-Fi.
In 2021, SWR became the first train operator in the country to partner with Missing People. The cost-of-living crisis has since been exacerbating many reasons why people go missing, making the partnership even more important.
It is hoped that this new campaign will help prevent people in crisis going missing and help people who are already missing find a safe way home to their loved ones or another place of safety, keeping people in crisis from harm and reuniting family and friends.
A video about the campaign can be watched here.
Peter Williams, Customer and Commercial Director of South Western Railway, commented:
“The cost-of-living crisis is putting an even greater strain on many across society, so we are proud to partner with Missing People on this important campaign to help people in crisis.
“SWR is committed to safeguarding vulnerable people on the railway, and this campaign encourages anyone on our network who is missing or thinking of going missing to contact Missing People for support.
“Together I hope that we can ensure that more people get the help that they need to get to a place of safety.”
Jo Youle OBE, Chief Executive, Missing People, commented:
“Missing People is delighted to partner with South Western Rail to reach people who may be in crisis, and to let them know confidential support exists. The links between mental health and going missing are clear. The risk of harm is acute for many whilst they are missing. Together, we hope to help less people come to harm. The support of SWR, with awareness and vital funding, gives us the best chance of providing a safe way home for missing people.”
If you have been affected by missing, we are here for you. Contact our Helpline on 116 000 by call or text or email 116000@missingpeople.org.uk.
You can also access our services and learn more about the ways we can help below:
Learn moreWe have launched a regular email so that you can be aware of new missing person appeals and share them far and wide! We are also calling on all Heroes to be the eyes and ears for Missing People on the ground. Your sighting of a missing person could make a difference in a crucial time.
