COMMUTERS are being asked to help save lives at railway stations as part of a new suicide prevention campaign.

Samaritans, British Transport Police and rail operators are launching 'Small Talk Saves Lives' to give travellers the confidence to act if they notice someone who may be at risk of suicide on or around the rail network.

The campaign is asking the public to trust their instincts and look out for other passengers who may need help.

Encouraging passengers to notice possible warning signs such as a person standing alone and isolated, looking distant or withdrawn and staying on the platform a long time without boarding a train.

'Small Talk Saves Lives' say there is no sign or combination of behaviours that mean a person is suicidal but if something doesn’t feel right passengers must act.

However in different situations, alternative actions are suggested ranging from approaching the person and asking them a question to distract them from their thoughts, alerting a member of rail staff, or call the police.

British Transport Police chief constable, Paul Crowther, national strategic policing lead for suicide prevention, said: “Our officers make lifesaving interventions on the railway every day, together with rail staff and members of the public.

"We know from experience that when someone is in distress, simply engaging them in conversation can make all the difference and help set them on the road to recovery.

"It makes sense to let the public know that this simple act can help.

"We’re not suggesting people intervene if they don’t feel comfortable or safe to do so.

"They can tell a member of rail staff or a police officer – many of whom have been trained by Samaritans – or call 999.”

Find out more about Small Talk Saves Lives at www.samaritans.org/smalltalksaveslives