A chance encounter while travelling on the Medway Valley Line helped us to discover more about the Kent Rail Pastors team.

Kent Rail Pastors provide a caring presence on Southeastern’s trains and stations to support both passengers and staff. Rail Pastors come from many different faith backgrounds. They are all volunteers who show their faith by action, and care by listening and helping. They receive training around mental health issues, active listening, alcohol and drug addiction and suicide prevention.

They look out for anyone who may feel vulnerable, isolated or simply in need of a friendly chat, offering hot drinks, sweets and stickers. Their support is non-judgemental and compassionate.

Less than 12 months since the launch of the scheme the team has grown from an initial 18 members to 32 recruits, spreading reassurance to passengers across the Southeastern network.

If you spot the Kent Rail Pastors on our lines do take a moment to say hello, and have a chat to them if you need it.

More information about Rail Pastors is available from the Ascension Trust.