The Sarah Hope helpline, set up to support those affected by serious incidents on TfL’s transport network, marks its 10th anniversary this year.
In 2016, Sarah Hope MBE established the helpline with TfL after a tragic London bus accident claimed her mother’s life and caused life-changing injuries to both her and her daughter.
Since its launch, the service has provided practical and emotional support to more than 600 individuals and families.
Speaking at a commemorative event for the Line on February 16, London Mayor Sadiq Khan said: “The aftermath of a serious incident on our transport network is harrowing, and it’s vital that everyone affected gets professional help when they need it.
“The Sarah Hope Line has provided vital support to Londoners affected by serious incidents on our transport network over the past decade, and I want to thank Sarah for her strong campaigning which made this service a reality.”
The line runs alongside the TfL’s Vision Zero pledge to reduce the incidence of fatalities and serious injury across all its lines.
This commitment aims to eliminate deaths and serious injuries on London’s transport network by 2041, with post injury support comprising one of its five pillars.
Speaking on the helpline’s anniversary, Sarah Hope MBE said: “For ten years, the Sarah Hope Line has stood beside people on the hardest days of their lives, offering kindness, compassion and practical help when it’s needed most.”
“Every call reminds us that behind every incident is a real person and a family who deserve to be heard and supported — and it gives us hope that together we can build a safer, kinder future. I ask everyone to play their part: stand with us, speak up for reducing danger, and help make London’s streets safer for all.”
Hope’s work was recognised in the 2021 New Year Honours, when she was awarded an MBE for services to child amputees and road crash victims in London.
Anyone who contacts the Sarah Hope Line receives support tailored to their circumstances.
This can include trauma counselling, guidance towards specialist charities and organisations, help with travel costs, assistance with funeral expenses and arrangements, and short-term accommodation.
The team also regularly supports individuals affected by incidents that occurred years earlier, but who are only now ready to seek help.
Feature image credit: Roy Reyna via Pexels
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