8,000 children supported as industry backing drives real change
Funds from last year’s Railway Ball already making a direct difference
More than 8000 children have been supported by Railway Children over the past year thanks to The Railway Ball, including around 5000 children reached directly on the streets or at transport hubs where they were at immediate risk. The update was shared by Jack Miller, Group Director of Fundraising & Marketing at the latest Railway Ball Committee meeting and is a clear reminder of the impact behind the night. “The money we receive in November gets put to work in December,” said Jack. “There are children being supported now because tables were sold this time last year.”
UK outreach expanding with earlier intervention at stations
In the UK, Railway Children has significantly expanded its outreach work, including at Waterloo station, where its team is now supporting more than 3000 people. Some individuals need only brief help. Others are children facing serious risks, including exploitation, running away from home or being drawn into unsafe situations. By working directly in stations and alongside transport staff, the charity is able to step in earlier and help change outcomes before situations escalate. This shift towards visible, early intervention is helping identify vulnerable young people sooner and connect them with the right support.
International work delivering practical, long term solutions
The charity’s work continues internationally, with a focus on practical support and long term change.
In Tanzania, Railway Children is training police and transport staff to respond more appropriately to vulnerable children. In India, the charity is expanding its reach into new stations and strengthening partnerships with child welfare committees to ensure children are moved quickly into safe environments. “We are working with local government and local partners to get children somewhere safe,” Jack said. “It is about finding real solutions, not just short term fixes.”
Keeping the focus on impact
For the Railway Ball Committee and indeed all of UK Rail, the message is simple. Every table sold translates directly into support for children. Angie Doll, Chair of the Railway Ball Committee, emphasised the importance of keeping this front of mind. “We sometimes forget to reinforce why we are doing this,” she said. “The more we bring the impact to life, especially here in the UK, the more it resonates and encourages people to get involved.” She added that clear, simple messaging is key when engaging potential attendees, particularly when budgets are under pressure.
Looking ahead to this year’s Railway Ball
This year’s Railway Ball will take place on Friday 27 November 2026 at the InterContinental London The O2. With 70% tables already booked (as of June 2026) the committee is encouraging organisations across the rail industry to confirm their support.
Every table booked this summer helps fund support for children this winter.
Get in touch to find out more: enquiries@railwayball.co.uk
