British commuters are being urged to intervene to help prevent railway suicides.

People are being asked to take part in a new campaign that would involve them spotting vulnerable people and talking to them to interrupt their suicidal thoughts.

The UK Samaritans, British Transport Police (BTP), the rail industry and train operating companies are launching Small Talk Saves Lives to give travellers the confidence to act if they notice someone who may be at risk of suicide.

Organisers are asking the public to trust their instincts, and look out for fellow passengers who might need help, as illustrated in a new film.

It features Sarah Wilson, who had planned to take her life but didn't as somebody reached out to her.

She says: "Someone showing that they cared about me helped to interrupt my suicidal thoughts and that gave them time to subside.

"The more that people understand that suicide is preventable, the better.

"I hope people will share the video and that the campaign will encourage people to trust their gut instincts and start a conversation if they think someone could need help. You won’t make things worse, and you could save a life."

Sarah Wilson’s name has been changed and her role in the video is played by an actor.

Meanwhile, here in Ireland 6 people died by suicide on railways last year - and so far this year there have been five fatalities.

Susan Keogh has been speaking to Mark Smith from the British Transport Police about the new campaign: