How Quick Thinking and Compassion Helped Save a Life on the Railway
Recognising Exceptional Actions During National Suicide Prevention Month
When we talk about railway safety, we often think about operational procedures, risk management and emergency response plans. However, sometimes it’s the actions of a single individual that make the greatest difference.
In recognition of National Suicide Prevention month, we would like to acknowledge the outstanding actions of one of our rail workers, Snehal Chauhan, whose professionalism, quick thinking and compassion helped safeguard a vulnerable individual in crisis.
Whilst working alone one evening, Snehal was alerted by a concerned member of the public who had identified a young person at immediate risk. Remaining calm under pressure, Snehal took prompt action to protect their safety, engaging with the individual and making attempts to encourage them away from the platform edge. He immediately alerted the Control Office and British Transport Police (BTP). These actions ensured trains were stopped from approaching the platform and enabled emergency services to respond safely and effectively.
By acting decisively in a highly challenging situation, Snehal helped create the conditions needed for a vulnerable young person to receive the support they required.
Snehal has been awarded Fusion People’s Recognition of Exceptional Assistance Award and will also receive the GTR Lifesaver Award later this month.
We are incredibly proud of Snehal and the professionalism, care and vigilance he demonstrated. His actions are a powerful reminder that knowing how to respond in a critical situation can make a significant difference.
If you or someone you know is struggling, support is available. You do not have to face it alone.
The Importance of Suicide Prevention on the Railway
Stories like this highlight why suicide prevention remains a critical priority across the UK rail network. According to the rail industry’s suicide prevention programme, railway suicides account for approximately 4-5% of all suicides in Great Britain. While this represents a relatively small proportion of overall suicides, the impact on individuals, families, railway staff, passengers and local communities can be devastating.
Recent figures published by Network Rail show that in 2025/26 there were 277 suicides or suspected suicides on the overground rail network. However, there are also many positive examples of intervention and life-saving action.
During the same period, rail employees, police officers and members of the public intervened in more than 2,119 suicide attempts on the railway, helping thousands of people access the support they needed. These figures demonstrate the significant role that awareness, vigilance and intervention can play in suicide prevention.
Every conversation, welfare check and safeguarding action has the potential to save a life.
The Power of Intervention
One of the most important messages in suicide prevention is that people do not need to be mental health professionals to make a difference.
Recognising when something doesn’t seem right, checking on someone’s wellbeing, seeking assistance, or contacting the appropriate emergency services can all have a profound impact.
Snehal’s actions are a powerful example of this. By remaining calm, following the correct procedures and putting the safety of another person first, he helped create the opportunity for further support and intervention.
Across the rail industry, staff receive training to recognise signs of vulnerability and distress, but situations like this also demonstrate the importance of teamwork between rail employees, emergency services and members of the public.
Where to Get Help
If you or someone you know is struggling, support is available. You do not have to face difficult times alone.
Samaritans
The Samaritans provide a free, confidential listening service 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Call: 116 123
Website: Samaritans
Mind
Mind is a mental health charity providing information, advice and support for people experiencing mental health difficulties.
Website: Mind
Hub of Hope
Hub of Hope is the UK’s largest mental health support directory, helping people find local and national support services.
Website: Hub of Hope
NHS 111
If you need urgent mental health support, NHS 111 is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.