Train travel next weekend for solo teen?

[DistrictCommissioner]

Would you send your (mature, well travelled 14 year old) from Devon to Manchester via train on 17th Aug, returning 21st Aug? Both days aren’t formally within the strike but we are concerned there may be disruptions (but there might not be!)… didn’t really pay attention to the aftermath of the strikes last time as it didn’t impact on us.

I'm not sure that I would. Trains are very likely to still be affected a lot on the 21st. Avanti in particular have been awful on Sundays recently.

Is there a contingency whjere they could stay an extra night in Manchester if need be?

Luckily the trains are Cross Country not Avanti but not sure how much difference that makes…

lack of flexibility in Manchester is one of the stresses - there is an option for an emergency bed for the night with friends though.

depends what the back up options are......if they're going to stay with friends or family and can easily stay an extra night then I'd perhaps consider it.

They are going to stay with granny, but she needs to get to London on the Sunday herself (she is stressed about that). But there are friends in Manchester who DC could go to if necessary.

I think you do need a back up. Dd has had some awful problems with trains recently. She is 20 and regularly travels London to Crewe route. Last time she ended up having to go via Derby.

Assuming they have a phone and are fairly well travelled, I'd let them. It's just a case of following signs, reading the boards and being prepared to look at alternatives if there is disruption. . It's useful experience. I get v irritated by my adult friends who freak out at the idea of using any kind of public transport as it's too complicated.