UPDATE!

John was on hunger strike from 1st November until 14th December as he felt he had no other means of protesting against the forced closure to Kirsty’s Kids care centre. Despite communications with Network Rail and the landowner, there is still a future threat as there will be maintenance works to the railway line in the future.

Keep up the pressure! This very special place must be kept open and vulnerable children and families given the care they need in peace.

Sign, share and support! Thanks in advance!

"Kirsty's Kids," a registered charity in a tranquil site in Lochaber, is dedicated to offering free respite care services for vulnerable children and their families.

In 2021, John and Jan Bryden's property, home to Kirsty's Kids, faced devastating flooding from Network Rail land, resulting in significant damage. Shockingly, despite no planned rail maintenance near Kirsty's Kids, Network Rail has opted to further demolish the adjacent meadow, creating a new industrial yard feet from the charity grounds. The landowner CHOSE not to reinstate the meadow, despite promising to do so, and is cashing in on the site being used as an industrial yard.

The most recent Network Rail use of the yard commenced abruptly, with the Brydens receiving no notice. The work included massive lorries, industrial machinery working 24/7. Consequently, a family with autistic children had to depart immediately. Autistic children cannot adapt to unexpected, incessant, noise and lights. The whole experience caused significant trauma to the family. Kirsty’s Kids uniqueness lies in its comprehensive support, with indoor and outdoor spaces and activities, all set in an area of outstanding beauty. 

The Brydens have endured excruciating anguish which has had severe health repercussions. In a desperate move, John has resorted to a hunger strike as his final attempt for resolution.

Network Rail has been formally requested to promptly dismantle the ramp and relocate to either of two nearby railway access sites, both currently in use for the same purpose. SES, Network Rail's contracted team, has affirmed that either location is more than adequate for the job. There is absolutely no justification for them to remain on the current site. To facilitate the reopening of Kirsty’s Kids, the following actions are imperative:

Immediate removal and cessation of the unlawfully built ramp and rail-related repair or upgrade items;
Stop using a recently converted ditch, which is feet away from the charity, as a railside yard;
Relocation of all heavy machinery to the designated sites where children's charities or private dwellings will not be impacted.

This is extremely urgent! Your signature and support WILL make a difference for this vital facility. Please sign and share with your contacts to help amplify the impact.