Our Rail Safe Friendly Ambassadors
Mother of Harrison Ballantyne and Rail Safety Campaigner.
At the heart of our mission stands Liz, whose personal tragedy inspired the Rail Safe Friendly Programme. Losing her 11-year-old son, Harrison, ignited a powerful drive in Liz to ensure rail safety for all. Her unwavering dedication makes her our first and most vital ambassador.
Group Head of Safety, Security and Sustainability at Transport UK.
With decades of rail industry experience, Phil’s passion for safety is deeply rooted. His family’s connection to the railway fuels his commitment to the Rail Safe Friendly Programme. Phil’s insights and expertise are invaluable to our cause.
Independent Chair & Safety Consultant.
Allan brings over 10 years of Network Rail experience and his background as HM Deputy Chief Inspector of Railways to his role as an ambassador. His dedication to safety and commitment to the Rail Safe Friendly programme make him an essential part of our team.
Non Exec Director and Consultant
Rail safety is not just a job for Neil; it’s a passion. He focuses on keeping workers and the public safe daily. Hearing about the Rail Safe Friendly Programme resonated deeply with Neil, and he is proud to contribute as an ambassador.
Director of Rail Strategy at Carlisle Support Services.
Steve’s extensive experience as an Operations Manager in the Rail and Security industries makes him a powerful advocate for rail safety. The mission of the Rail Safe Friendly Programme aligns perfectly with his values, leading him to become a dedicated ambassador.
Head of EHS – Rail Infrastructure at Siemens.
Award-winning health and safety leader Robin Gibson instantly connected with the Rail Safe Friendly Programme. His dedication to excellence and his passion for safety make him a highly valued ambassador.
Business Development Director at Rail Technology Magazine and TransCityRail.
Roy’s encounter with the Rail Safe Friendly Programme sparked a realisation about the need for greater awareness. As a father and a prominent figure in rail media, he leverages his platform to support the programme, providing valuable resources and connections to amplify its reach.
Mobile Operations Manager at Network Rail
Mark Etienne, Network Rail’s Mobile Operations Manager, brings a wealth of experience to railway safety. As a former British Transport Police officer with 16 years of incident response and a qualified Emergency Services Drone Pilot, he is dedicated to educating others as a Rail Safe Friendly ambassador. Mark also champions mental health awareness as an ambassador for PTSD999.
Route Crime & Security Manager at Network Rail
Jennifer is a passionate communicator dedicated to making a real impact. As the Route Crime & Security Manager, she proactively manages performance and implements strategies to mitigate crime on the West Coast South Route. Her efforts not only enhance overall performance but also play a key role in preventing criminal activity, making her a valuable and enthusiastic ambassador for the Rail Safe Friendly Programme.
Project Lead (Route Crime) at Network Rail
Steve is deeply committed to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). His early involvement in CSR ignited a passion for public engagement and safety, leading him to become a strong advocate for Education, Enterprise, and Employment. Steve utilises his expertise to support communities affected by socio-economic challenges, making him an invaluable ambassador for the Rail Safe Friendly Programme. His extensive background as an energetic supporter of various charities and community groups perfectly complements his role with us.
Head of Health Safety & Environment Improvement at Network Rail
Nick Jordan is a dedicated ambassador for the Rail Safe Friendly Programme. He is passionate about finding innovative ways to deliver memorable messages and campaigns that lead to positive behavioural changes. This commitment to impactful communication is invaluable to the Rail Safe Friendly Programme’s mission to enhance rail safety.
Head of Revenue Protection & Security at c2c
With over 30 years of experience in the rail industry, Iain is a passionate advocate for rail safety. Having started as a Train Dispatcher, progressing to Group Station Manager, and now Head of Revenue Protection & Security, he brings a wealth of knowledge to his role as a Rail Safe Friendly Ambassador, dedicated to sharing life-saving information with young people.
Head of Compliance at CAF
James Harris, Head of Compliance at CAF, brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to safety to his role as a Rail Safe Friendly Ambassador. James’s passion for rail safety stems from his professional background and a personal conviction that every child deserves the knowledge to stay safe around railways. By championing the Rail Safe Friendly Programme, he aims to extend its reach, ensuring that vital safety messages resonate with young people across the UK. His leadership exemplifies how industry professionals can make a tangible difference in community safety through education and engagement.
Professional Head of Health, Safety & Wellbeing at RSSB
Gemma brings a wealth of experience in rail safety. Gemma’s commitment to safeguarding young people near railways is rooted in a deep understanding of both safety culture and wellbeing, and her leadership helps ensure that every child across the UK receives vital education on the risks of trespass and the importance of awareness – empowering the next generation to stay safe around railways.
Education and Youth Engagement Advisor – Community Rail Network
Education Team Leader – Community Rail Lancashire
Karen is a qualified teacher who works in the community rail sector. She has led award-winning rail safety projects such as Backtrack Competition and Arlo’s Adventures – There and Back. Karen’s key role sees her visiting schools across the North providing rail safety education (as well as lessons on careers, sustainability and rail confidence). She also supports Community Rail Partnerships and adoption groups nationally with their education and youth engagement through chairing the Community Rail Education Network and by providing in-person support. She is passionate about ensuring all young people receive a sound education on rail safety and is committed to supporting staff across the industry in the teaching of this.
