Free train travel for people fleeing domestic abuse in East Anglia extended
The Rail to Refuge scheme is being kept going for another year
Free train travel for people fleeing domestic abuse in East Anglia is being extended for another year.
Rail operator Greater Anglia is joining other companies in keeping the 'Rail to Refuge' scheme going for at least another 12 months.
Since it was first introduce in March 2020 train operators have given free tickets to 3.118 people, including 874 children.
More than 60% of those who used Rail to Refuge said they wouldn't have been able to travel if it weren't for the free tickets.
The scheme is a collaboration between train operators, the Rail Delivery Group, the Women’s Aid Federation England, Welsh Women’s Aid, Scottish Womens’ Aid and Imkaan.
Those using Rail to Refuge are supported to find a place in a refuge and don't have to explain their situation before boarding a train.
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.”