Having reviewed recent threads discussing disruption on the railway we would request that members do not post threads relating to fatalities and other incidents (such as broken down trains or signalling faults) on the railway unless they require advice on their alternative travel options or if the case has been reported by reputable national media outlets.
In addition for threads started to discuss fatalities or other person hit by train/person under train incidents, the Forum Staff request that members take into account guidance published by the Samaritans on this subject:
For further information, please see the attached guidelines PDF on the Samaritans website by clicking here.
For example we do not want to see threads where the content is solely:
In addition for threads started to discuss fatalities or other person hit by train/person under train incidents, the Forum Staff request that members take into account guidance published by the Samaritans on this subject:
Samaritans said:The ‘imitational’ effect: As with all reporting relating to suicide, be aware that vulnerable people might be exposed to media coverage about suicide which can increase the risk of encouraging ‘imitational’ behaviour. There is substantial evidence that if too much detail is published regarding a method of suicide vulnerable people may try to take their own lives using the same or similar methods. This is as true for railway suicides as for others.
Railway stations, railway bridges and level crossings are highly visible locations and risk becoming a known location, especially if they are repeatedly referred to in the media. It is vital that the media does not contribute to a specific location, on or near the railways, becoming a setting that vulnerable people could identify as an easily accessible place to take their own lives.
For further information, please see the attached guidelines PDF on the Samaritans website by clicking here.
For example we do not want to see threads where the content is solely:
Example member said:The 0940 from Glasgow Central has hit someone at Watford Junction.
Thoughts with all concerned.