South Western Railway (SWR) and Network Rail have introduced new ‘Hub of Hope’ signage at Mortlake station, offering a clear route to mental health support for anyone who may need help while travelling. The initiative highlights both local and national services, giving passengers an immediate way to find guidance during moments of crisis or uncertainty.

The Hub of Hope, run by mental health charity Chasing the Stigma, is one of the UK’s largest directories of support services. By scanning the QR codes displayed on the new signage, individuals are directed straight to the Hub of Hope Directory, where they can quickly locate the resources most relevant to their situation. The aim is to remove common barriers that prevent people from seeking help, while offering reassurance and practical information in a simple, accessible format.

The signage was formally unveiled on Wednesday 26 November by representatives from SWR, Network Rail, Chasing the Stigma, and Councillor Margaret Dane, Disability Champion for the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames. Councillor Dane originally proposed the idea as a local trial aimed at supporting those affected by witness trauma, but through collaboration with rail partners and the charity, the concept has evolved into a broader support mechanism intended to benefit the wider community.

Matt Smith, SWR’s Senior Security and Strategy Manager, and Alex Moles, Wessex Route Crime Lead, said:

“The Hub of Hope initiative at Mortlake station shows the railway and the local community coming together to make a difference. We’re proud to be working alongside Councillor Dane and Chasing the Stigma to create a safer, more compassionate environment for our customers."

Councillor Margaret Dane added:

“South Western Railway, in conjunction with the Hub of Hope, Network Rail and other partners have broadened my initial proposal far beyond what I had envisaged. The Hub of Hope signage will include mental health resource information for a wide range of mental health issues, reaching all over the country."

Andrew Coe, Project Manager at Chasing the Stigma, said:

“Chasing the Stigma are delighted to see the introduction of Hub of Hope signage at Mortlake Station. This vital initiative will continue to help people using the rail network to access over 14,000 mental health services listed on the Hub of Hope."

Image: South Western Railway