Land Sheriffs has been awarded a new contract with Network Rail to continue delivering security services across the Western Thames Valley route, with the agreement expanding to include dedicated trespass and welfare teams.
The company has supported Network Rail in the Thames Valley area since August 2022, when it began providing 24-hour mobile patrols to monitor stations and respond to incidents across the route.
During that period, Network Rail recorded a rise in trespass and welfare-related incidents. In response, a trial programme introduced specialist trespass and welfare officers to provide a more visible and proactive presence at key stations.
Following the trial, the updated tender formally incorporated these roles into the contract.
“We’re delighted to have been awarded the new contract supporting Network Rail. This success reflects the professionalism and dedication of our colleagues who work tirelessly to keep the railway safe. We’re proud of what the team has achieved and look forward to continuing our support in the years ahead” says James Coyle, Managing Director of Land Sheriffs.
Under the agreement, mobile patrol teams operate during key risk periods to provide coverage across the route. Officers travel in fully equipped vehicles and are trained to respond to a range of incidents affecting railway operations.
The contract also includes dedicated trespass and welfare officers at several high-footfall stations where operational impact and vulnerability concerns are higher. Locations include Oxford, Reading and Reading West, Slough, Hayes & Harlington, Southall and Hanwell.
“Land Sheriffs provides a dedicated officer at each of these locations seven days a week, supported by an additional officer who can respond to emerging issues across the network. Our officers are also trained in Samaritans’ Managing Suicidal Contact, enabling them to recognise and safely engage with vulnerable individuals when welfare concerns arise” adds James.
According to the company, the teams have already responded to 1,017 incidents, including 29 suicide interventions, 42 trespass incidents and 328 concern-for-welfare cases.
“Thank you all for your continued support and commitment to making our railways safer. In the Thames Valley area, we’ve seen a 10% decrease in TRUST-related incidents year-to-date and a 24% reduction in delay minutes compared to last year. Your efforts play a huge part in making that possible.” says Andy Philips, Programme Manager – Route Crime & Security at Network Rail.
Land Sheriffs delivers security services across critical infrastructure and public environments, including mobile patrols, manned guarding and CCTV monitoring through its operational control centre.