The extension of ‘Rail to Refuge' scheme comes as figures reveal that on average, four survivors each day nationally use the scheme with reports now showing that abuse intensified during the coronavirus restrictions.
The scheme was first introduced in March 2020, with rail operators right across the country providing free tickets to 3,118 people, including 874 children.
65% Of people who used ‘Rail to Refuge' reported that they would not and could not have been able to travel if the journey wasn't paid for with an average journey costing £73.
Rail to Refuge is a scheme set up in partnership with the Rail Delivery Group, which acts on behalf of rail operators, and Women's Aid Federation England, Welsh Women's Aid, Scottish Womens' Aid and Imkaan.
Jamie Burles, Greater Anglia's Managing Director, said:
“We're proud to be a part of this vital scheme which is making a real difference to survivors of domestic abuse.”
Women's Aid Members Services supports survivors, offers a place of refuge and can book the necessary tickets required with rail operators covering the cost including children's tickets if needed. The tickets can be used as e-tickets via a phone or can be collected at stations with a debit or credit card. The scheme gives survivors the ability to board a train and travel with no need to explain their situation to anyone.
Survivors of domestic abuse who wish to use the Rail to Refuge scheme or need other support can contact Women's Aid via their Live Chat service which is open from Monday to Friday from 8am to 6pm and on Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 6pm: https://chat.womensaid.org.uk
Greater Anglia has created its website to be a ‘Safe Space' for survivors of domestic abuse. Online ‘Safe Spaces' are web pages which are untraceable with information on specialist domestic abuse support services, national helplines and other resources developed by the charity, UK SAYS NO MORE.
The Greater Anglia website features a ‘Safe Space' widget at the bottom of its greateranglia.co.uk website which lets anyone experiencing domestic abuse access support and information discreetly whilst carrying out everyday online tasks.
The ‘Safe Space' webpage does not appear in internet browsing history and also has a function to allow a quick exit.
Mind you 133 Class 720s is quite a lot that Greater Anglia have ordered to replace the whole existing units that were used on the West Anglia main line, Great Eastern main line, Southend Victoria line and other electrified routes in Essex.
Excellent choice. Very nice Greater Anglia.