Land Sheriffs has recorded its 500th potentially life-saving intervention on the UK rail network, a milestone reached on 6 November 2025. The company has been providing manned security services at stations across the South East and wider network since 2005, with officers frequently responding to vulnerable individuals in distress.
The organization reports that its teams continue to encounter people experiencing acute emotional crises, many of whom arrive at stations while contemplating self-harm. According to UK figures, suicide remains the leading cause of death for people under 35, and the biggest killer of men under 50.
James Coyle, Managing Director of Land Sheriffs, said: “Whilst this is a very sombre milestone, it also reflects the extraordinary work of our frontline team. The rail network is used by millions of commuters each day and our team are ready to help protect and support them in any capacity.”
Earlier this year, Land Sheriffs established a Trespass & Welfare Team to support vulnerable individuals and reduce track trespass incidents. Operating across the Western route from Oxford to Acton, the team has already contributed 14 interventions within six months.
Mohamed Rage, Community Safety Manager at rail operator Western Route, said: “Land Sheriffs’ 500th lifesaving intervention is a powerful reminder of the critical work their Trespass & Welfare Officers carry out every day. The dedication shown across the Thames Valley demonstrates an unwavering commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals.”
Sultana Pasha, Safeguarding Manager at GTS, added: “We are proud to partner with Land Sheriffs as our trusted security provider on the Elizabeth line. Reaching the milestone of 500 life-saving interventions is not just a number but a testament to the team’s dedication to safeguarding vulnerable individuals and ensuring the wellbeing of all passengers.”
Land Sheriffs’ officers receive Samaritans’ Managing Suicidal Contact (MSC) training to help them recognize and support individuals at risk. Dave Brown, Head of Rail Programme at Samaritans, said: “The hard work and commitment of Land Sheriff’s to keep people safe on the rail network is remarkable. At Samaritans we are dedicated to working with people across the industry to ensure that fewer people die by suicide.”
The organization also partners with PTSD999, which described the 500-intervention milestone as one that “serves as a powerful testament to the critical work being done every day” and “highlights the reality of the mental health crisis we face.”
Reflecting on the milestone, James Coyle concluded: “These powerful statistics are a stark reminder of why an active security presence by trained and experienced staff is so critical to everyone safety and the networks’ ability to function. We are immensely proud of all our colleagues whose courage and compassion have helped ensure the safety of over 500 people at a time when they needed it most.”