Customers can now donate their refunds from delayed trains to the charity Samaritans rather than receive the payments themselves. The scheme was introduced by Northern back in December Mark Powles, Commercial and Customer director said: “One of our key goals is to make a positive impact in the north of England”
Despite the reduced numbers of people who have been able to travel due to Covid, since the scheme began in December, over 170 passengers have chosen to support the charity with a total of £958 has been donated to Samaritans.
Mark Powles added: “we hope that by continuing our support for Samaritans through this scheme we can reach out to those who may be struggling”
“The charity has trained many of our frontline staff to spot someone who might be vulnerable, giving them the confidence to simply start a conversation which could help save a life”
The option to donate a repayment can be selected from a drop-down menu at the bottom of the Delay Repay form which can be found of Northern’s website.
Olivia Cayley, Samaritan’s head of rail programme, said: “We are so grateful to Northern for their continued support. We know this past year has really tested the mental health and wellbeing of the nation and every donation goes towards helping our amazing volunteers be there for anyone who needs support”
“Samaritans has worked in partnership with the rail industry for over 10 years, to remind the public that suicide is preventable and talking really can save lives – whether that’s with a friend, a colleague or Samaritans’ volunteers who are always there to listen without judgement”
