Avanti West Coast has partnered with the Family Holiday Charity to provide trips this summer for families experiencing difficulties.

Initially as part of a trial, six families are being supported by the rail operator and charity over the school summer holidays to travel to a holiday destination on its line, which includes North West England, North Wales and Scotland.

Families supported include those facing financial hardship, bereavements, insecure housing, disabilities and with caring responsibilities.

“Throughout the summer holidays, families will embark on an adventure across the West Coast Main Line, with Avanti West Coast supporting their travel and helping to build confidence in those who may not be familiar with navigating the railway,” said the rail operator.

Its customer experience director Kathryn O’Brien added: “We’re really proud to be partnering with the Family Holiday Charity this summer to offer families, who may otherwise not have the chance, the opportunity to go on holiday.

“We serve many picturesque towns and seaside destinations along the West Coast Main Line that will be the perfect destination for the families to enjoy new experiences and escapism from their day-to-day reality. The trips will offer something that many could take for granted – the opportunity to nurture relationships, create memories and reconnect with one another.”

The charity’s chief executive Rob Parkinson said: “Providing new experiences and opportunities to make enduring memories is central to what we do as a charity, and so we’re very excited to be working with Avanti West Coast on this summer pilot project.

“We’re really grateful for the collaboration which will provide travel for several groups this summer.

“We are also really looking forward to hearing how the families enjoy exploring and discovering some of the holiday hotspots on the Avanti rail network.”

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