Railway Children

Railway Children has been fighting for children alone and at risk on the streets for over 25 years. During that time, we’ve reached more than 275,000 children in India, the UK and East Africa. 

We know there is still so much more to do. Millions of children still live alone on the streets where they suffer abuse and exploitation. In the UK, society often denies their existence, and in other countries the problem is so prevalent that it has become ‘normal’.

Our Work in the UK:

The rail network is like a magnet, attracting vulnerable children and young people and offering a place to go to instead of home or a place to hide, as well as access to trains that can be used to escape, run away or sometimes travel to meet new people.

But they can also attract those looking to exploit the vulnerable such as county lines gangs, drug runners, those involved in child sexual exploitation and trafficking. These predators are determined and skilled at seeking out, befriending and grooming young people who will then be subjected to exploitation and abuse.

That’s why we make sure to reach them first. Our work focuses on identifying those at risk, early intervention and preventing harm - transforming children’s lives, and optimising their life chances before it’s too late.

https://www.railwaychildren.org.uk/