Rail users handed kits to combat the ravages of Christmas parties

Commuters travelling in to London Victoria station and Blackfriars this morning were being offered free Christmas Party ‘survival’ kits in recognition of peak time for office get-togethers in the festive season.

This week is statistically the most popular for office Christmas parties, according to Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) and they want to do their bit to help partygoers get home safely.

The ‘Survival’ Kits include useful post-work-party essentials to combat a hangover – an instant coffee sachet, protein snack bar, detox shot, rehydration electrolyte sachet, gel mask for the eyes, eco-friendly deodorant and breath mints.

Despite half of Brits now working remotely, almost two in five are expected to travel by train to their work Christmas party, meaning that many office workers will be heading home worse for wear.

With nearly one in ten commuters admitting to missing the last train after a Christmas party, the ‘Survival’ Kits are designed to perk travellers up for their journey home, as well as helping weary heads the next day.

As well as offering a helping hand this festive season, the giveaway aims to raise awareness about the increase in accidents that take place at train stations at this time of year.

GTR data shows there were more than 150 incidents relating to slips and falls at stations last winter, and there was also a rise in reports citing intoxication as a contributing factor.

Samantha Facey, ‘Elf, Safety and Security Director’ at Govia Thameslink Railway, said: “With this week being the most popular time for office Christmas parties, we’re likely to see extra travellers, which is why we’re offering a helping hand with our ‘survival’ Kits.

“We of course want our customers to go out and have fun, but with a year-on-year increase in slips, trips and falls on our network during winter, coupled with higher levels of intoxication, we want people to be careful when travelling and not to do anything that puts themselves, or anyone else, in danger.”

Greg Blenkin, a station assistant for Govia, said: “We find that people are more interactive with staff over the festive period, but they can also be a bit too giddy. For example, going beyond the yellow safety line, going too close to trains that are pulling in and out of the station.

“We have to step in a bit more as you can see other customers getting concerned, but a lot of the time people are willing to listen. For those heading home after the annual office party, please carry a bottle of water with you and avoid running on the platforms.”

Pictured top: Elf and Safety helper handing out a survival kit (Picture: GTR)