GWR grant will help to improve young people’s safety in Gloucestershire

Funding will enable SkillZONE in Gloucestershire to transform the Rail Scenario inside its life skills village, with moving level crossing barriers and enhanced special train and weather effects.

Since opening in 2012, SkillZONE has welcomed 44,800 visitors and delivered more than 1,670 educational sessions, with young people learning about making safer choices in different scenarios whether at home, while travelling or taking part in activities.

The Rail Scenario is one of 14 zones within the lifesize safety village – operated by Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service – but has not been updated since the centre opened.

As part of GWR’s franchise agreement with the Department for Transport, the train operator is committed to supporting schools, colleges, community and other not-for-profit organisations by aiding a number of initiatives.

SkillZONE manager Madeleine Jarrett said:

“SkillZONE offers more than just an interesting school or community group trip; the lessons young people learn in our interactive village could be lifesaving for all ages, helping us stay safe around water, roads, train stations, trespassing on level crossings/lines and our own homes. We also introduce young people to the consequences of offending and unsafe online activity.

“SkillZONE helps young people recognise dangers and dilemmas in everyday situations and empowers them to make good choices about their own safety. Young people will be asked to consider the consequences of anti-social behaviour and youth offending, including trespassing, and how this can affect their future.

“This funding will enable us to update the Rail Scenario with moving level crossing barriers, as at present they are fixed and not realistic.”

Funding will also allow SkillZONE to target schools in Gloucestershire that are near to railway stations, rail lines or level crossings so they can be invited to attend.

GWR Community Manager Emma Morris said:

“We have a specific pot of money designed to help support schools, colleges and community or other not-for-profit organisations. SkillZONE provides a vital service, helping young people to make good choices about their own safety, so we are pleased to be able to offer this funding.”

To find out more about SkillZONE please visit skillzone.glosfire.gov.uk

Notes to editors

First Greater Western Limited, trading as “Great Western Railway” (GWR), operates trains across the Great Western franchise area, which includes South Wales, the West Country, the Cotswolds, across southern England and into London. GWR provides high speed, commuter, regional and branch line train services, and before the covid-19 pandemic helped over 100 million passengers reach their destinations every year. GWR was recently awarded an extension to its direct award franchise (called DA3), which shall run up to 31 March 2023 with an option to extend for a further year. 

Find out more here: https://www.gwr.com/about-us