Do train drivers assist disabled passengers?

[whole diary]

[Gordon the Blue Engine]

In the event of an emergency affecting the safety of the line the Driver is required to go and protect other lines by walking along the line and placing detonators on lines coming towards his train. If he has time he has to do the same at the back of the train.That is after he has spoken to the Signaller and told him of the circumstances.

Surely detonators aren't still used? With track circuits, DOO^▸ (Driver-Only Operation (that is, trains which operate without carrying a guard)) radio, emergency stop buttons etc what is their purpose?  The Driver and his/her train are surely safer if they stay together.

[IndustryInsider]

Dets are still used as a warning method of last resort, although the advent of GSM-R^▸ (Global System for Mobile communications - Railway.) does make their existence even more outdated than it was.  They are still used more routinely for assistance protection to ensure the train needing assistance isn't hit by the assisting train.  The railway industry isn't quick at removing old safety measures!