TransPennine Express (TPE) Safeguarding and Prevention Lead Steve O’Callaghan has been awarded a British Empire Medal (BEM) in the King’s Birthday Honours for services to rail safety.
Steve from Sheffield has dedicated more than 20 years to protecting communities through policing and the railway. Today, he leads safeguarding, crime prevention and wellbeing initiatives across the TPE network, helping keep passengers, colleagues and communities safe.
His work has included strengthening partnerships between the rail industry and British Transport Police (BTP), supporting the opening of Hull station’s pioneering Safeguarding Hub and delivering rail safety education talks for schools and communities across the North of England. Steve also launched TPE’s groundbreaking Pets As Therapy programme with his German Shepherd, Nya, helping make TPE the first train operator in the UK to have its own official Pets As Therapy dog.
Together, they have supported vulnerable passengers, promoted rail safety and enhanced wellbeing for customers and colleagues. He also authored the children’s book Nya the Train Dog: A Tale of Safety and Smiles, helping share important rail safety messages with young people.
Steve said: “I am incredibly honoured to receive this award.
“Keeping people safe has been at the heart of my career and I firmly believe that collaboration is key to making a real difference in helping keep the railway safe for everyone. I’m proud to have worked alongside so many dedicated colleagues, partners and communities who share that commitment.
“This recognition reflects the collective efforts of everyone who works tirelessly to make the railway a safe and welcoming place for all.” Chris Jackson, Managing Director at TransPennine Express, said: “Steve’s passion for safeguarding and rail safety has made a real difference to our railway.
“From pioneering new initiatives to supporting vulnerable customers, his impact can be seen across our network every day. We are incredibly proud to see his contribution recognised in the King’s Birthday Honours.”
To mark the impact Steve and Nya have made together, TPE will also present Nya with a special recognition award. As Steve’s trusted four-legged colleague, Nya has played an important role in supporting vulnerable passengers, promoting rail safety and helping make the railway a more welcoming place for customers and colleagues across the TPE network.
