The cost of a train ticket should never be an obstacle to escaping a dangerous situation. However, for many people experiencing domestic abuse, it can feel impossible to reach safe refuge accommodation, especially when it is far from home.
Together with other train companies, CrossCountry is working with Women’s Aid to provide free train travel for anyone escaping domestic abuse, helping them reach safety and access refuge accommodation when they need it most.
On average, the Rail to Refuge scheme helps 4 survivors to safety each day.
How does the Rail to Refuge scheme work?
With the help of the Rail to Refuge scheme, thousands of survivors have made it safely to refuge accommodation. Here’s how to access support
- Reach out to a domestic abuse service:
- Alternatively, contact the National Domestic Abuse Helpline at 0808 2000 247.
- If you are then referred to a refuge, you will be informed once a vacancy becomes available.
- Once you have a confirmed refuge space, the refuge can arrange a train ticket for you, allowing you to travel free of charge. If you have children travelling with you, please inform the support worker so tickets can also be arranged for them.
- The refuge will send your ticket and collection details to your mobile phone by text, WhatsApp, or email. You can either use the e-ticket sent to your phone to travel, or collect a printed ticket from a station ticket machine using any debit or credit card and the collection code provided by the refuge. The card does not need to be the one used to book the ticket, and it will not be charged.
You can then travel as normal. You do not have to declare the ticket was free or mention anything about your situation at any point on your journey. Rail to Refuge means you can travel discreetly and safely to your refuge destination.
Alongside Rail to Refuge, Women’s Aid has also set up Road to Refuge with National Express, providing free coach travel for survivors of abuse.
If you are seeking help, please find more information at Women’s Aid Travel to Refuge.
