TransPennine Express Safeguarding Lead Honoured with BEM for Rail Safety Work
By Community Correspondent
A rail safeguarding lead has been awarded a British Empire Medal in the King’s Birthday Honours for his work to improve safety across the railway network.
Steve O’Callaghan, from Sheffield and Safeguarding and Prevention Lead at TransPennine Express, has spent more than 20 years working in policing and rail safety roles focused on protecting communities.
In his current position, he oversees safeguarding, crime prevention and wellbeing work across the operator’s network, aiming to keep passengers, staff and communities safe.
His work has included strengthening joint working with the British Transport Police and supporting the development of a safeguarding hub at Hull station.
He has also delivered rail safety talks in schools and community groups across the North of England, encouraging younger people to understand the risks around the railway and how to stay safe.
One of his more unusual initiatives was the introduction of a Pets As Therapy programme at TransPennine Express, making it the first train operator in the UK to have an official therapy dog.
Working alongside his German Shepherd, Nya, Steve has helped support vulnerable passengers and promote wellbeing across the network.
He has also written a children’s book, Nya the Train Dog: A Tale of Safety and Smiles, to help share rail safety messages in a more accessible way.
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Speaking after receiving the honour, he said he was “incredibly honoured” and paid tribute to colleagues and partners.
“Keeping people safe has been at the heart of my career,” he said. “I firmly believe collaboration is key to making a real difference on the railway. This recognition reflects the efforts of everyone who works to make it a safe and welcoming place.”
Chris Jackson, managing director at TransPennine Express, said Steve’s work had had a “real impact” across the network.
To mark the award, the company will also present a special recognition to Nya, acknowledging the role the therapy dog has played in supporting passengers and staff.
