Understanding and preventing rail suicides in the UK

Content warning: Some readers may find this content distressing or triggering. If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts or need support, please contact a mental health professional or a suicide prevention helpline. Click here for resources available for support

Rail suicides account for approximately 4% of all suicides in the UK (RSSB, 2024). In the year ending March 2024, there were 274 fatalities due to suicide on the mainline rail network (ORR, 2024). Each of these deaths represents a significant and tragic loss of life, with far-reaching impacts on families, friends, rail staff, and the broader community.

The Department for Transport (DfT) commissioned the National Centre for Social Research (NatCen) to conduct a rapid evidence assessment and qualitative interviews with a range of stakeholders. The aim of the research was to better understand the determinants of rail suicide, the effectiveness of prevention measures, the impacts of rail suicide on staff and passengers, and mitigation strategies to reduce impacts. 

Key determinants of rail suicide

The review identified a range of factors associated with rail suicides in the UK. Rail suicides often clustered around specific locations, with individuals typically choosing sites near their homes or places of residence. Smaller stations and open tracks were more common locations than larger stations, level crossings, or bridges. 

Timing patterns also played a role, with most rail suicides occurring during daylight hours and being more frequent on Mondays and Tuesdays. Demographic and individual characteristics were significant determinants, as men aged 18-44, particularly those who were unemployed, single, and living alone, faced a higher risk. Mental health issues were prevalent among those who died by rail suicide, with many individuals having received psychiatric care or being inpatients at the time of death. 

Another important factor was the influence of media reporting. Coverage of high-profile rail suicides was linked to subsequent increases in incidents, emphasising the importance of responsible media reporting.

Effective prevention measures 

The review highlighted interventions with strong evidence for reducing rail suicides in the UK. Physical barriers, such as Platform Screen Doors (PSDs) ¹ , were highly effective in underground stations, particularly when full-length PSDs were used. PSDs however present implementation challenges in the UK due to a railway network characterised by long stretches of exposed track and the high costs associated with the installation. The evidence recommended considering PSD installation as part of future network renovations or expansions. Track fencing also proved effective, especially given that tracks are the second most common location for rail suicides.

Other interventions requiring further research in the UK context included the following: 

• Broader public awareness campaigns aimed at creating a more friendly and supportive railway environment.
• Mid-platform fencing in reducing rail suicides on 'fast lane' platforms, relevant to the UK's high-speed rail networks.
• Staff training programmes increased staff confidence in identifying and intervening in suicide attempts.
• AI-powered CCTV systems for early detection and intervention.

Impacts on rail staff

The research also looked at the impacts of rail suicides on train drivers and rail staff. Research from the Rail Safety and Standards Board (RSSB) found that those who witnessed a fatality were twice as likely to develop symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) than rail staff who did not witness a fatality (RSSB, 2021). Evidence indicated that incidents can also have occupational impacts on train drivers, such as sick leave, changes to work practice, and permanent career changes. 

Evidence suggested that Psychotherapy and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) ²  therapy were consistently effective in alleviating post-traumatic symptoms for train drivers although these approaches were not widely implemented in the UK. 

One initiative commonly used in the UK was the trauma support training developed by the Samaritans. The course provides essential information for drivers, ensuring they are informed about the possibility of suicide, the protocols that follow an event, and the available support resources.

Impacts on passengers

The study found little evidence on the impact of rail suicide on rail passengers. However, some evidence explored the emotional responses and reactions generated by specific railway announcements. These included sadness, sympathy, fatigue and frustration as a result of the disrupted journey. Mitigation strategies for passenger support included providing safe spaces for those who intervene in suicide attempts, using less graphic language in public announcements, and offering detailed information on service disruptions and alternative travel options.

Where to get help

If you or someone you know is struggling, various resources are available for support:

• Samaritans: A 24-hour service available every day of the year at 116 123. You can also email jo@samaritans.org for written support.
• Mind: A mental health charity in England and Wales that offers information, advice and support to people with mental health problems.
• Hub of Hope: A national mental health database and signposting tool run by the charity Chasing the Stigma. It brings together organisations and charities from across the UK who offer mental health advice and support, making it easy for people to find the help they need in their area.