Big Tick for British Transport Police

British Transport Police in the North West has received the stamp of approval from a top award body.

Last week BTP in the North West was handed a Big Tick at the annual Business in the Community Awards for its work in the field of education through its Choices and Consequences programme.

The Big Tick, which is the most respected mark for responsible business practice, was awarded to BTP for its work with children and educational establishments through the TeachingZone website, the Your Choice conferences and other processes including partnership work with Network Rail, train operating companies and Rock FM.

Chief Superintendent Peter Holden, Area Commander for BTP in the North West, said: “To be recognised by Business in the Community is not only an honour, it is also a reflection of the hard work and dedication shown by our staff and officers.

“Across the area we are committed to working with younger generations to educate them about the potential dangers posed by the railways.

“Route crime is a major issue for BTP and sadly it is often children and young adults who engage in this activity, usually in the form of trespass.

“The idea behind the website and the programme of conferences is to improve the children’s awareness of the dangers and to present these in a way that is accessible and understandable.

“By combining fun and learning we hope to improve the knowledge and respect young people have for the railway environment and this award recognises the area’s efforts in reaching a large audience with the resources at its disposal.”

The Big Tick received by North West Area in 2009 follows similar awards in 2006, 07 and 08 for BTP’s commitment to diversity.

Chief Supt Holden added: “This is the fourth year in which we have received a Big Tick from Business in the Community which, I believe, underlines our drive towards excellence and our desire to work with our partner agencies and the communities we serve.

“I’d like to thank everyone who has been involved in the Your Choice conferences and the TeachingZone website for the professionalism they have shown in taking important messages to young people in the North West.”

The Business in the Community Awards identify and celebrate companies that have a positive impact on the community, environment, marketplace and workplace.

Now in their twelfth year, they are the UK’s leading Awards for responsible business practice.

The Big Tick is awarded to businesses that are able to demonstrate significant impact and high quality management of their responsible business practices and that can show a positive impact both on society and on the business.