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Future Tracks – Safety Advice

by South Eastern Railway
Youth Unity launches rail safety campaign for young passengers
 
Youth Unity has launched a youth-led safety campaign to help young people travel more confidently on public transport, following the recent train incident in Cambridgeshire.
 
In November 2025, a serious attack took place on a train shortly after it left Peterborough, leaving several passengers injured before the service was diverted and the suspect arrested. While incidents like this are rare, it highlighted the importance of clear safety advice for young people who use the rail network every day.
 
In response, Youth Unity worked with young people through its Future Tracks programme to create a new media campaign offering practical travel safety tips.
 
Youth-led safety advice
The campaign, “10 Tips to Stay Safe Travelling on Public Transport,” was developed with input from young passengers and focuses on simple, practical guidance, including:
  • Planning journeys in advance
  • Choosing well-lit, busy areas
  • Staying aware of surroundings
  • Keeping phones charged and contacts informed
  • Being cautious with personal information
  • Knowing how to report concerns
  • What to do in an emergency
The materials have been designed for social media, schools, and rail environments.
 
 
Building safer travel habits
The campaign forms part of Youth Unity’s Future Tracks programme, which focuses on early intervention, awareness, and confidence-building for young rail users.
 
Youth Unity is now inviting rail partners to support the campaign by sharing the materials, co-branding content, and working together on future safety initiatives.
Railway track with switch and interchange and high rise building in Hong Kong city

Future Tracks: Supporting Vulnerable Youth Through Mentorship on the Move

by South Eastern Railway

At Youth Unity, we believe every young person deserves guidance, safety, and a clear path toward a brighter future. That’s why we’re proud to introduce Future Tracks a targeted, trauma-informed mentoring program supporting vulnerable young people across South East London and Dartford, particularly those connected to the railway network.

We meet young people where they are, emotionally and physically, and help guide them toward safer paths and brighter futures.

Why the Railway?

The railway is more than a transport route, it’s a real-world touchpoint for vulnerable youth. It can also be a space where risk, escape, and opportunity collide.

By working with:

  • Southeastern Railway Safeguarding

  • British Transport Police

  • Local authorities & schools

…we’re able to intervene early, build trust, and open doors.

Future Tracks is a trauma-informed mentoring program supporting vulnerable young people aged 11 to 25. The project is embedded within the Southeastern railway network to support those at risk of:

  • Going missing

  • Anti-social behaviour

  • Exploitation

  • Substance misuse

  • Being NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training)

What Future Tracks Offers​

Safety Awareness

“Teaching young people to stay safe while traveling.”

 Life Skills

“From communication to money management, helping them grow in confidence.”

Emotional Support

“Providing a trusted adult and safe space for each mentee.”

Our Approach: Trauma-Informed & Contextual Safeguarding

We don’t just offer help, we understand the bigger picture. Our mentors are trained in:

  • Trauma-informed listening

  • Contextual safeguarding principles

  • Cultural awareness and anti-oppressive practice

Six important life skills

Let's Keep the Tracks Moving Forward At Future Tracks, we believe in early intervention, empowerment, and real change. Together, let’s help every young person find their way.