Southeastern has become the first train operator in the country to pilot a new initiative aimed at providing essential items — from warm winter clothing to children’s toys — to women’s refuges.

The scheme, developed by the Rail Delivery Group (RDG), teams Southeastern with Solace Women’s Aid in London to donate unclaimed lost property directly based on need. While Southeastern already sends unclaimed items to charities, this initiative allows refuges to request specific items, such as coats, jumpers or toys, which train operators will then supply where possible from their lost property stores.

Deliveries are handled through InPost Lockers, ensuring donations reach refuges securely, privately and efficiently, without revealing refuge locations or tying up frontline staff time. The first delivery under the scheme took place on Wednesday, 5 November, and included two jumpers, several coats and five cuddly toys — items in high demand as winter approaches.

Aaron Cox, Station Manager at Southeastern, said:

“When we were first approached about this scheme, we were very keen to get involved and provide further help beyond the normal support of the Rail to Refuge scheme. We regularly donate lots of unclaimed items to local and national charities, and this initiative builds on our commitment to support those in need. I'm confident that this trial will prove successful and can then be extended across other rail operators to help supply much-needed items to women's refuges across the country."

Jacqueline Starr, Executive Chair and CEO of Rail Delivery Group, added:

“The railway has a long history of helping people in times of need and this initiative is another way we can make a real difference. By working together with refuges and partners like InPost, we’re ensuring that items which might otherwise go unused reach those who need them most safely and quickly. We are committed to supporting the most vulnerable people within the communities we serve.”

The initiative builds on the industry’s wider commitment to supporting survivors of domestic abuse. The Rail to Refuge programme, run with Women’s Aid since 2020, provides free train travel for those escaping abusive situations. More than 13,000 survivors have received free journeys, with nearly two-thirds saying they would not have been able to travel safely without the scheme.

Neil Kuschel, CEO of InPost UK, said:

"At InPost, we’re proud to see our locker network being used to support such an important initiative. This partnership is an example of how our innovative Send offering can make a real difference, helping essential items reach those who need them quickly and securely. Working with public sector and charity partners, such as Solace and the rail industry, reflects our commitment to using our technology for good and supporting communities across the UK."

Cassie McMaster, Senior Corporate Partnership and Training Manager at Solace, said:

“We are so pleased to work with the Rail Delivery Group and Southeastern Rail on this fantastic initiative. Survivors often arrive at the refuge with almost nothing, as they have had to flee their homes unexpectedly. Having a source of items we know these women and children need is a huge help in supporting survivors on their journeys to safety.”

RDG plans to work with more train operators and refuge partners to expand the scheme nationwide in the coming months.

Image: Southeastern