Land Sheriffs is set to help keep the UK rail network safer with their trespass and welfare deployment.

Land Sheriffs provides a range of security services throughout the UK, including mobile patrols, manned guarding and 24/7 covert and CCTV monitoring.

This year, Land Sheriffs launched a new trespass and welfare deployment to help prevent trespassing and protect the welfare of train network users, including station staff and train drivers

Land Sheriffs: Protecting citizens

James Coyle, Managing Director, Land Sheriffs said: “Our trespass and welfare deployment will see our highly-trained officers on duty across the Thames Valley Corridor from Oxford to Acton Main Line Stations.

“By patrolling platforms and remaining alert to welfare concerns, we will be helping to protect our clients, their staff and passengers.”

Trespassing a leading cause in delays

According to National Rail, trespassing was one of the biggest causes of delay in the financial year 2023/24, resulting in over 108,000 minutes of delays for passengers.

As part of their new deployment, the Land Sheriffs’ team will prevent trespassing by deterring people from walking off the ends of platforms or jumping down onto tracks to reach another platform or retrieve dropped items.

“Significant costs for the rail industry”

Coyle added: “Trespassing occurs much more regularly than you might think and it causes significant disruption, including major delays for passengers and freight, alongside significant costs for the rail industry.

“And most importantly, trespassing is extremely dangerous, posing risk of serious injury and even loss of life.

“With this deployment, we’re helping ensure the rail network remains safe, secure and free from disruption.”

“462 life-saving interventions”

Whilst patrolling stations, welfare officers are set to be stationed to provide support to those in need, offer reassurance and signpost subjects to safety, seeking aid from the necessary authorities where needed.

With officers trained in Samaritans Managing Suicidal Contact, Land Sheriffs has reportedly already made a big difference when it comes to protecting people in danger at rail stations.

Coyle stated: “To date, Land Sheriffs have made 462 life-saving interventions, with individuals receiving a Life Saver Award for their courage and quick action.

“Our trespass and welfare deployment is proving to be a proactive approach which helps saves lives and addressing concerns for welfare incidents before they escalate further.

“This deployment is a natural progression of our commitment to safeguarding the railway. It’s about being visible, responsive and making a real difference where it matters most.”