Following a significant number of railway suicides in Harlow, today I met with the Chief Superintendent of the British Transport Police to discuss this tragic problem. Strangely, there isn’t a nationally agreed structure for the policing of railway stations.
However I do believe that somehow there needs to be an increase in police patrols. It is apparent that the largest number of suicidal deaths are committed by troubled individuals often in a temporary state of depression. I would like to see social care and local health organisations working much more closely together in order to create a support network for those identified at risk. For example; Samaritans is a hotline which provides emotional support for those experiencing suicidal thoughts or distress. This is extremely beneficial but a more physical approach needs to be taken too.
But, we also need to see a system of voluntary 'railway' Special Constables established. Their sole focus would be to patrol the platforms to identify any suspicious behaviour, and prevent it. They would be community volunteers - and would have similar powers to other Special Constables.
Another idea would be for Samaritan branches to be ready to attend a station in an emergency. My aim is to create a Pilot Scheme, whereby National Express, East Anglia and the National Police work on preventing suicides on the London to Harlow train line. Seeing as this is such a concentrated approach, it would mean that great attention and time can be dedicated to preventative methods for suicidal deaths at rail stations.
However I do believe that somehow there needs to be an increase in police patrols. It is apparent that the largest number of suicidal deaths are committed by troubled individuals often in a temporary state of depression. I would like to see social care and local health organisations working much more closely together in order to create a support network for those identified at risk. For example; Samaritans is a hotline which provides emotional support for those experiencing suicidal thoughts or distress. This is extremely beneficial but a more physical approach needs to be taken too.
But, we also need to see a system of voluntary 'railway' Special Constables established. Their sole focus would be to patrol the platforms to identify any suspicious behaviour, and prevent it. They would be community volunteers - and would have similar powers to other Special Constables.
Another idea would be for Samaritan branches to be ready to attend a station in an emergency. My aim is to create a Pilot Scheme, whereby National Express, East Anglia and the National Police work on preventing suicides on the London to Harlow train line. Seeing as this is such a concentrated approach, it would mean that great attention and time can be dedicated to preventative methods for suicidal deaths at rail stations.
