A RAIL MANAGER at Chiltern Railways has been nominated for a rail hero award, after assisting a passenger in crisis.
Sean Sullivan from Wythall noticed a vulnerable woman on the platform who was visibly upset.
He trusted his instincts, approached her, and started a conversation.
In response, the lady hugged him, and agreed to come on the train Sean was managing so they could have a chat.
Sean said: “The lady was standing at the wrong end of the platform which was unusual, I went over to speak to her and she was really upset.
“She agreed to get onto the train with me and we started talking.
“She opened up and admitted that she wanted to end her life.
“It’s a difficult situation, but I’m glad I managed to intervene and make her see there was another way.”
The passenger said Sean’s kindness put a pause to her suicidal thoughts.
During their conversation, Sean discovered the passenger had family in Leamington along the route.
Knowing the train was due to stop at the town, Sean called ahead to the station manager, arranging for her to be met from the train.
“He said he would make sure she met her family and get to safety.
“It was a shock to be nominated for an award as I just felt I had a duty of care towards her and all passengers.”
Matt Turner, Chiltern Railways’ Media Relations Manager, said: “I’m delighted to have nominated Sean for a Heart of Gold Award.
“Staff on our stations and trains sometimes encounter vulnerable passengers and Sean’s selflessness, courage, and dedication to his duty of care ensured this passenger got home safe at a time of crisis.
“Sean typifies how those working on our network go above and beyond and trust their instincts by starting a conversation when they encounter a vulnerable passenger.
“Everybody in the business is rooting for him to win this much-deserved accolade.”
The Heart of Gold Awards celebrate those in the rail industry who have made a real difference in their workplace or community.
The Railway Benefit Fund received over 70 nominations.
Visit railwaybenefitfund.org.uk/events/heart-of-gold-awards/vote-for-your-rail-hero-award-winner/ to vote.
