CASE STUDY
Reducing incidences of Concern for Welfare cases at a Network Rail Bridge
Client: Network Rail
Industry/Sector: Rail infrastructure
Location: Evesham, Worcestershire
Site Type: Bridge (both sides) situated over the Cotswold Line
Introduction
Concern for Welfare cases are a frequent occurrence on rail infrastructure, sometimes sadly resulting in fatalities which on the UK rail network account for more than 250 fatalities annually. Railway bridges in particular pose an increased risk due to their height and ease of access.
This bridge in Evesham, Worcestershire, was classed as being a particularly ‘high-risk’ location and therefore a priority for the Route Crime and Suicide team on the Western Route of Network Rail to consider installation of preventative measures.
Objectives
To achieve a significant reduction in Concern for Welfare cases and subsequently the risk of fatalities.
There is strong evidence to suggest that physical anti-climb measures significantly reduce suicides at hotspots such as railway bridges. With many suicides attempted impulsively, the installation of such products can create a critical pause, allowing the crisis moment to pass and creating opportunity for intervention or forcing the individual to reconsider their actions.
It was important that the integrity of the bridge was not compromised by using screws to fix the chosen anti-climb method so a suitable alternative was important.
A public footpath runs adjacent to the bridge so the placing of the anti-climb installation upon the parapet of the bridge was vital so as not to violate the Highways Act 1980.
Solution
Product Used: DefendaStrip Rise
Why This Product: The ability to fix the product to the bridge parapet using adhesive rather than screws. Budget friendly, effective, simple and quick to install particularly on a linear run, maintenance free and Secured by Design Accredited.
In this instance, permission had to be obtained from the local Highways Department to close the bridge for the duration of the installation (other remedial works took place simultaneously) so ease of installation of the product was important to complete the works within that time.
Results
Since the installation took place in October 2025 there have been no reported Concern for Welfare cases.
Conclusion
The primary objective was to significantly reduce the number of Concern for Welfare cases, with other relevant factors having to be taken into account during the project’s consideration – such as the location, installation surface, ease of fitting of the product and available budget. DefendaStrip Rise managed to satisfy all these requirements and presented a solid, effective installation whilst blending into the bridge structure and local environment without being unsightly.
