RailStaff - Issue 282 | November-December 2022

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TOOL WILL SAVE

WELLBEING

THEY ARE A-CHANGING

MAKE YOUR WILL FOR FREE

Partners in rail, RBF and Railway Mission, continue their FREE will writing service after over 1,000 people used this service during Will Month in March. The two railway charities have come together to provide this joint initiative, kindly supported by the Retired Rail Officers Society (RROS).

Why is making a will so important?

Writing a will is the only way to ensure your final wishes for your estate are fulfilled. It is a chance to remember people and causes you care about in life. A clearly written will also avoids unnecessary confusion and stress for loved ones at an already difficult time.

How do I write my free will?

We have teamed up with will writing service, Bequeathed, to give people working in rail and their families the chance to write or update a will for FREE. You have the option to write your will online or over the phone. Both services provide a consultation with a solicitor to finalise your will.

Supporting your railway charities

If you would like to support RBF or Railway Mission you can leave a gift in your will or make a donation on completion of your will - there is no obligation to do either. We are so very grateful for any gift, large or small. Your generous support means that we are able to be there for the Railway Family when they need us.

Charity No 1128024, SC045897

Staff TIME TO REFLECT AND LOOK FORWARD

Unbelievably, yet another year is coming to a close. Where does the time fly? It’s been another 12 months of ups and downs, some aspects of which we might rather forget, but now’s not the time to be pessimistic. Christmas is upon us, and we should embrace everything that the season has to offer – family, friends, a brief pause to reflect, and an opportunity to look forward.

In a poignant start to the issue, Malcolm Dobell remembers his friend and industry powerhouse Adrian Shooter, who sadly passed away on 13 December. Adrian enjoyed a long career and a distinguished career on the railway, earning him awards, accolades, and the deep respect of his peers. Not many people are honoured with a statue in their own image, but Adrian’s was unveiled at Marylebone Station in August this year. He will be sorely missed.

Colin Wheeler follows with two features, both looking at safety on the rails. His regular bulletin covers incidents that have occurred over the past few months, with a particular focus on the derailment at Petteril Bridge Junction, Carlisle, which has echoes of the 2020 Llangennech accident. Colin also takes a retrospective look at rail safety in 2022 and gives us his hopes and predictions for the coming year.

As part of our Progress and Innovation focus,

we take a look at the lush ‘living walls’ which are popping up at stations around the country and consider their impact on the wellbeing of staff and passengers, and the environmental benefits they provide in enclosed spaces.

Staying on the theme of innovation, RailStaff spoke to National Highways and specialist survey firm Geoptic to discuss their use of muon tomography on Glasgow’s disused Balgray Tunnel. The technology, which relies on the detection of cosmic rays, may have wideranging uses on the wider rail network, should this trial prove successful.

We then take a long look at the spectacular RailStaff Awards which took place on 24 November. The event honoured all the dedicated and dutiful teams and individuals who make up this great industry, and in these pages we celebrate the winners and give a nod to those who were highly-commended.

Finally, Young Rail Professional’s Fiona Westcough give us a rundown of this year’s successful Rail Week, which saw a broad spectrum of events taking place across England and Wales. By all accounts, the event was a huge success.

That just leaves me time to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

Here’s to a less eventful and more prosperous 2023!

© Serts

HS2 Ltd has hosted Build UK on a busy construction site in Warwickshire for the national launch of ‘Open Doors 2023’, which takes young people and those looking for a change of career behind the site hoardings to experience construction first-hand.

The launch was held at HS2’s Long Itchington Wood Tunnel north portal site near Leamington Spa and was attended by over 25 young people from Walsall and Warwickshire Colleges. The site is managed by HS2’s contractor Balfour Beatty VINCI (BBV) and is where the tunnel boring machine ‘Dorothy’ is being prepared to begin the second bore of the one-mile twin bore tunnel under an ancient woodland.

HS2 has partnered with Build UK to offer a number of construction sites for next year’s Open Doors event, which will run across the

country from Monday 13 - Saturday 18 March 2023.

A wide range of organisations will be taking part, offering site visits across the UK, with projects ranging from tunnels to skyscrapers, as well as offices, factories, and other facilities to demonstrate the off-site roles across the sector.

At the launch, the young people heard from Neil Johnson – BBV’s Tunnels Delivery Director, and Doug Barnett – HS2’s Senior Project Manager, who talked about the massive tunnelling operation currently taking place on the site. They also learned about the types of careers available on HS2, which is currently supporting nearly 30,000 jobs, including over 950 apprentices.

HS2’s Senior Project Manager for Long Itchington Wood Tunnel, Doug Barnett said: “Open Doors is a fantastic initiative and HS2 is delighted to be partnering with Build UK

Rail finances show signs of recovery

The Office of Rail and Road (ORR) has published its latest Rail Industry Finance (UK) statistical report. The report shows the income, expenditure and government funding of the UK rail industry for the financial year 1 April 2021 to 31 March 2022.

The rail industry’s finances show signs of recovery from the effects of the pandemic, although passenger revenue remains well below pre-pandemic levels. With the easing of COVID-19 restrictions, passengers have been returning to the railways, and as a result government support to the industry reduced in the latest year.

The key findings include:

The rail industry as a whole received £21.3 billion of income in the latest year (April 2021 to March 2022), through government funding (£13.3 billion), fares and other passenger income (£6.5 billion), and other sources (£1.5 billion).

Fares income in the latest year was

£5.8 billion. Adjusted for inflation, this is an increase of £3.9 billion from the previous year (April 2020 to March 2021), due to passengers returning to the railways. However, it is 46.6% lower than the £10.9 billion fares income generated two years ago (April 2019 to March 2020).

Government funding of the rail industry was £13.3 billion, a drop of £4.3 billion (24.4%) from

HS2 opens doors to young people

to launch next year’s event. It was great to share my own experience of working in the construction sector with the students on site today, some of whom are already starting their training on construction-related courses. They were very enthusiastic about their first-hand experience of one of HS2’s largest construction sites, and the opportunity to gain unique insight from some of the people working on the project.”

During the week-long programme of events next March, visitors will get a unique insight into a career in construction by going behind the site hoardings to experience the fantastic range of opportunities available in construction. In addition to familiar site-based construction roles, many of the positions available are based externally, with companies requiring a back-office support network, front-of-house sales teams, and cutting-edge technical roles.

the previous year, as fares income was £3.9 billion higher. However, this support continues to be higher than the £6.8 billion provided in the year before the pandemic (April 2019 to March 2020).

Industry costs, excluding financing costs, decreased by £0.2 billion to £20.0 billion.

Investment in new and enhanced rail infrastructure and rolling stock increased to £7.6 billion, an increase of £1.8 billion. The majority of this was accounted for by the HS2 project, which rose by £1.6 billion.

© ORR

Avanti's new fleet begins testing

The first of Avanti West Coast’s new fleet of trains has begun dynamic testing at Network Rail’s Rail Innovation and Development Centre (RIDC) in Leicestershire.

In a major milestone for the £350 million project, the Class 805 bi-mode train, which was built at Hitachi Rail’s Newton Aycliffe factory in North East England, will travel under its own power at speed for the very first time.

Unit number 805001, still sporting its base livery, is expected to remain at RIDC for most of November, before being joined by a second train (805003) to undergo further testing. Both trains will then move to Oxley depot (in the West Midlands) to begin an intense period of main line testing.

The new fleet will be a mix of ten sevencarriage electric trains and 13 five-carriage bi-mode trains, with the ability to switch seamlessly between electric and diesel power. The electric trains (Class 807) will operate between London, the West Midlands

and Liverpool while the bi-mode version will be focused on the London to North Wales route.

Liam Hockings, New Fleet Introduction Manager at Avanti West Coast, said: “The new train looks amazing and we’re looking forward to putting it through its paces over the coming months.

“These new Hitachi trains will help deliver a step change in the travelling experience of our customers and colleagues, along with a much greener and quieter operation.”

The new Hitachi trains offer more space and a quieter journey compared to the diesel-only Voyager trains they replace. This will lead to a 61% reduction in carbon emissions. Customers will also enjoy better and more reliable free Wi-Fi, at-seat wireless charging for electronic devices, plug sockets and USB slots; a brand-new catering offer and a real-time passenger information system that can advise customers of connecting rail services.

McLaren Applied wins Network Rail contract

McLaren Applied has announced the success of its bid to provide the 5G onboard connectivity solution for Network Rail infrastructure monitoring trains. The contract will see the company’s patented F1-derived Fleet Connect software installed on its firstof-its-kind Active Antenna hardware, supported by a five-year service contract.

©

Originally developed for the pinnacle of motorsport, Formula 1, McLaren Applied’s patented Fleet Connect software is already deployed on transport fleets around the world to facilitate seamless high-speed passenger WiFi connections and operator uplinks. Fleet Connect splits data across networks in real time and reassembles it in the cloud en route to its destination, reducing blackspots and providing a consistent connectivity stream for any moving vehicle in any environment.

The first implementation of Active Antenna technology in the UK, meanwhile, brings a new, simplified approach to on-train connectivity infrastructure.

Utilising industry-leading Huber+Suhner componentry with an edge compute module, modem and eSIM capability embedded within the antenna, all RF cables and routers are replaced with a single ethernet connection.

© Avanti West Coast

© McLaren Applied

Avanti West Coast

Elizabeth line marks six months

Business groups and small businesses praised the impact of the Elizabeth Line as it marked its sixth month in service. Nearly 70 million journeys have been made on the new railway line since its official launch in May, with half of these made in the central section between Paddington and Woolwich.

Businesses and local representatives have came together on 21 November at the historic Royal Academy to celebrate the huge boost to London that the line has provided in the six months since it was opened.

The latest ridership data shows that for the Elizabeth line around 600,000 journeys are made on the line each day. The most popular journeys made all involve Tottenham Court Road station, with Stratford, Paddington and Canary Wharf the most popular destinations with people leaving the west end. As a result of that popularity, use of Tottenham Court Road has increased by more than 80% since the Elizabeth line launched. Use of nearby Bond Street station has increased by more than 25% since the Elizabeth line station opened in October.

In a further boost to businesses, as of earlier this month direct Elizabeth line services now run from Reading, Heathrow and Shenfield into and out of central London. This means customers can travel east all the way to Abbey Wood without needing to change at Paddington mainline station and can travel west from Shenfield without changing at Liverpool Street mainline station, making journeys quicker and easier. Trains now run every three to four minutes between Paddington and Whitechapel.

Customers can also now use the Elizabeth line seven days a week following the start of regular Sunday services through central London. This is all the more important for businesses in the run up to the festive period, which is the busiest time for many retailers.

The final Elizabeth line station, Bond Street, opened a month ago, adding more capacity to the West End and supporting the area’s growth.

Northern unveils dementiafriendly signage

It has worked with the Friends of Buxton Station and local dementia support groups on the pilot scheme, which is designed to make signs much easier for someone with dementia to understand.

This includes fewer signs to avoid ‘information overload’, strategic placement of signs at important ‘decision points’, and wider use of symbols to reinforce the wording chosen.

The pilot follows an approach by the Friends of Buxton Station chairman, Dave Carlisle, to Northern for funding from the operator’s Accessibility Fund. Mr Carlisle, who has personal experience of Alzheimer’s in his family, says he was compelled to act having seen so many rail users struggle to understand some of the signs and instructions at railway stations.

Chris Jackson, regional director for Northern, said: “We’re really pleased to get this pilot scheme off the ground – which has already been recognised by the Community Rail Network for influencing positive change.

“Small alterations can make a huge difference to someone living with dementia and the feedback from rail users at Buxton Station will help inform future station improvements across the network.

“I’d like to thank the Friends of Buxton Station for championing this issue and working so closely with us on this pilot scheme.”

Northern and the Friends of Buxton Station are now encouraging feedback from local dementia support groups and individuals on the deployment of the scheme.

Train operator Northern has unveiled the first ‘dementia-friendly’ signage at one of its stations in Derbyshire.

dirty truth about rail cleaning...

63% of cleaners were struggling to make ends meet BEFORE the cost of living crisis

Rising prices mean that a cleaner on the National Minimum Wage would need a £2,000 pay rise to have the same spending power as last year

Cleaners get no company sick pay

69% of cleaners say they have gone into work sick because they can’t afford not to work

Cleaners get no travel facilities

The number of cleaners has been cut leaving people overworked and underpaid.

Trains of tomorrow

Self-charging trains could make their way onto Britain’s railways after receiving Government funding, says the Department for Transport.

As part of the First of a Kind 2022 competition, in partnership with Innovate UK, top innovators and inventors have won prize money to bring their innovations to life. This year’s competition focused on new concepts that will transform rail travel for passengers and decarbonising the network.

The competition saw 24 innovators receive a share of more than £5 million with grants of up to £400,000 each. From technology making our railways greener than ever before by removing harmful emissions from train exhausts to research into powering our railways with renewable energy, this year’s successful bidders will revolutionise the future of train travel for generations to come

Plymouth People's Piano

The main concourse at Plymouth Station is now home to the Plymouth People’s Piano after a £3,800 grant from Great Western Railway.

Plymouth Youth Music Service (PYMS), the hub lead organisation for Plymouth Music Education Hub, successfully applied for a grant from the train operator’s Community Fund, which was launched in May to support local communities and address areas of social need.

As part of GWR’s National Rail Contract with the Department for Transport, the train operator is committed to supporting schools, colleges, councils, community and other not-for-profit organisations by aiding a number of initiatives.

ScotRail-backed book tackles stereotypes

ScotRail has partnered with train and freight operating companies across the UK to help promote a new children’s book celebrating diversity and inclusion in the rail industry.

The railway has traditionally seen an older, white, male dominated workforce, something which ScotRail, and the wider industry, has been working to change.

Over the past few years, ScotRail has been involved in a number of initiatives which aim to break down stereotypes and attract more women, disabled people, and members of the Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic community into the rail industry.

This has resulted in ScotRail almost doubling the number of female train drivers it employs over the past five years, from 51 in 2017 to 96 in 2022. This increase means ScotRail employs more female train drivers than ever before.

QTS Training launches new training facility

QTS Training is launching its third English training facility, in Knottingley, West Yorkshire, to keep up with increased demand for its services in the north of England.

The NSAR gold training provider, which currently has locations in Drumclog, Linby, and Leeds, will be expanding into this standalone facility where it will offer Railway Safety, Small Plant and Tools, First Aid and Health & Safety training.

Lorna Gibson, managing director of QTS Training said: “The demand for training within the rail industry has never been higher, so we felt this was the perfect time to expand our offering within the north of England. This dedicated training centre offers the space, both inside and out, to be able to run all our railway safety critical courses, as well as courses in health & safety, first aid and mental health first aid.

“The Knottingley location also has ample

outdoor facilities, including an external track panel which allows us to run PTS courses, as well as small plant and tools.

“This expansion of QTS Training is incredibly exciting for us and we’re thrilled to be able to continue to be able to grow our offering in England. Along with the wealth of experience of Graham, Clive and Erik, our existing trainers and assessors based in the North of England, we are currently upskilling an experienced operational manager from QTS Group.

“Stephen McCready, who will be joining our team as an assessor and trainee trainer, and I am delighted to welcome him to our team. I am confident that his years and experience on the railway with QTS will enable him to become a first-class trainer.”

The current classroom facilities can hold up to 18 candidates and plans are in place for an additional two classrooms to be created.

The training centre is located at Spurriers Avenue, Knottingley, WF11 0ER, with free parking also available for candidates.

HS2 Ltd has announced this year’s winners of a competition to share insight from Britain’s largest construction project with the wider UK infrastructure industry.

The HS2 Learning Legacy initiative sees the publication of lessons learnt from across the project, including good practice and innovation. It is supported by a range of industry partners, including the Institution of Civil Engineers.

The five winners of the 2022 Technical Paper competition are:

• Driving efficiency and sustainability in material reuse through GeoBIM (Mott MacDonald, Vinci Construction Terrassement Grands Projects and Balfour Beatty) - This paper outlines how to use Building Information Management to drive efficiency and sustainability in terms of reuse of materials.

• Reducing emissions in construction through Non-Road Mobile Machinery Retrofit (HS2 Ltd, Balfour Beatty VINCI, Imperial College London and Eminox) - This report addresses how to reduce emissions and keep existing machinery in use for longer and extend the utility of the embedded carbon and the financial investment in those assets.

• Designing with landscape maintenance in mind (HS2 Ltd) – This paper takes a balanced and pragmatic approach to landscape design and consideration for future maintenance.

• Euston Bridge 7 Mitigation Works Design and Construction (Arup, Skanska and HS2 Ltd) – This paper brings together structural design, geotechnical analysis and construction solutions that were applied to mitigate the impacts of tunnelling on a

GTR and bus firm partner on accessibility

Accessibility advisors at Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) and Brighton & Hove Buses have worked together with adults with a learning disability to support them in making an integrated journey by both bus and train.

This is thought to be the first time that a bus operator and a rail operator have come together to offer a combined experience such as this, in partnership with an organisation like Grace Eyre.

Grace Eyre is a Brighton & Hove-based charity, whose Travel

Training programme transforms the lives of people with learning disabilities and autism by increasing their confidence to travel independently.

Accessibility managers Victoria Garcia (Brighton & Hove Buses) and Carl Martin (GTR) joined eight of the people supported by Grace Eyre on a Number 7 bus to Brighton Railway Station.

Along the way they acted out everyday scenarios such as how to deal with a missing bus pass and journey planning, to give their guests the knowledge and confidence to travel independently.

At the station, Carl showed the eight, who are all local residents, how to check train times, buy a ticket and ask for assistance. They then boarded a train to Haywards Heath before returning by a specially laid-on ‘rail replacement bus’, to show the alternative transport used if rail services are disrupted.

https://learninglegacy.hs2.org.uk © HS2

fragile bridge on the approach to Euston station.

• Streamlining Utilities Ground Movement Assessments (Arup) - This paper outlines how to improve reliability and speed-up decision-making backed by data.

They are amongst 28 new Technical Papers that will be published following the competition covering a range of topics including Design Engineering & Architecture; Environment; Digital Engineering; Health & Safety and Occupational Health & Wellbeing.

New Learning Legacy papers are published every year, including technical papers and case studies, and there are now over 150 resources on the website. HS2 is also partnering with industry to disseminate the learning through events and engagement as well as academia to share real life case studies with post graduate students.

© GTR

The winning submissions have been published on the dedicated learning legacy website at -

Electric wires that will power faster, cleaner, and more reliable trains between Manchester and Stalybridge have been installed as part of the multi-billion-pound Transpennine Route Upgrade.

The wires are the initial step towards fully electric local services between Manchester and Stalybridge by the middle of the decade - meaning better, greener, and more reliable trains for passengers in Greater Manchester.

Electric wires will eventually stretch from Manchester Victoria to York, passing through Huddersfield and Leeds, as part of the Transpennine Route Upgrade. The multi-billion pound project will bring one of the countries key travel corridors into the 21st century, with 70-miles of fully electric, digital railway.

The successful installation of the overhead electric wires marks a key steppingstone in the major project to improve services between Manchester and Stalybridge, which will see Stalybridge station close for 26 days in March while significant upgrades to track and infrastructure take place.

The Transpennine Route Upgrade is the biggest investment on the Transpennine route `since the 1870s and will transform rail journeys

Transpennine electrification

across the North. These improvements will enable more trains to run between Manchester, Huddersfield, Leeds and York giving passengers more choice and more seats.

Hannah Lomas, Principal Programme Sponsor for the Transpennine Route Upgrade said: “Once complete, the Transpennine Route Upgrade will transform travel in the North of

Reduce rail journey times to boost job creation

A new railway industry report looking at the economic, environmental, and social benefits of UK rail has revealed how reducing travel times by train would boost job creation across the country.

The report, commissioned by the Railway Industry Association (RIA) and conducted by independent researchers Oxford Economics, highlights the wider benefits of UK rail, and the fact that it creates significant economic, environmental, and social opportunities across the entire UK, and demonstrates how the railway industry is in prime position to help support key Government priorities, including economic growth, levelling up and achieving Net Zero.

The report’s key findings include:

A 10% reduction in journey times enables easier access to employment, leading to up to 17,600 jobs in London, 9,000 in the West Midlands and 8,200 in Scotland;

Public transport generates around £1.4 billion in time saving benefits every year for commuters in six of the UK’s largest cities from reduced congestion;

Reducing journey times between Manchester and Leeds by 20 minutes could increase wages by approximately £600 per worker per year;

By 2050, electric trains will produce 14 times fewer emissions than conventionally fuelled trains; and

£115 million per year in healthcare cost savings could be generated by improving public transport in six of the UK’s largest cities.

The research builds on the RIA-commissioned September 2021 Oxford Economics report on the economic contribution of rail, which showed that rail supports £43 billion GVA in economic growth, 710,000 jobs, £14 billion in tax revenue and for every £1 spent on rail £2.50 of income is generated in the wider economy.

England, reducing our carbon footprint by 87,000 tonnes of emissions each year, and providing a route that passengers can rely on.

“The installation of the very first Transpennine Route Upgrade electric wires in Greater Manchester is a major step toward a future of faster, greener and more reliable travel between Manchester and Stalybridge.”

A long-forgotten railway siding, dating back to the

has been discovered in Huddersfield,

the

Route Upgrade gains traction.

The siding at Hillhouse - used for harbouring off-duty trains - was unearthed while teams studied maps from 1850 to help inform a multibillion-pound rail upgrade set to transform the region.

It is thought that the siding, which composed of train sheds and railway turn tables, was used to house and maintain trains, as well as transport cattle, coal and other materials across the UK when the line formed part of the Manchester & Huddersfield Railway.

Over the last three months, Network Rail has been carefully uncovering the historic site, near Alder Street, to ready the route for twice as many tracks in the future. This will unlock the ambitions of the Transpennine Route Upgrade, making way for faster, more frequent trains running along a greener, electrified railway.

A programme of survey work was carried out with support from the Archaeological Services WYAS. The results confirmed that the foundations of the old sidings were buried just below the surface, spurring the specialists to bring the area back to how it would have looked over 172 years ago.

Delicately extracted samples of the brick and mortar will now help the team of experts to learn as much as they can about the site.

19th Century

as

Transpennine

© Network Rail

Historic railway siding unearthed

Adrian Shooter

WRITTEN BY MALCOLM DOBELL

Adrian Shooter, a well-known rail industry leader, died on 13 December at the age of 74. He was ill with motor neurone disease that had increasingly affected his mobility and speech.

Adrian was a keen photographer at Epsom College in the 1960s, where I first met him, and he reinvigorated the school’s semi-dormant Railway Society. He was always ambitious for the Society and one such ambitious activity was chartering a train from British Rail (BR) and selling tickets to the public at a profit. Somehow, Adrian and colleague, Graham Miller (who also joined BR), were able to persuade BR to charter them a train to be hauled by a specific locomotive. The other obstacle he overcame was to persuade the headteacher of the college to act as guarantor as everyone in the Society was under 18.

Adrian’s enthusiasm was such that it was inevitable that he would join BR which, following an apprenticeship at Bamfords Ltd, (now JCB), he did in 1970 as an engineering management trainee. He held a wide variety of roles in both engineering and management which led to him having great insights into a very wide range of jobs. It was

not unusual for him to take over from the train driver and drive all sorts of trains (under appropriate supervision, of course).

With privatisation beckoning, Adrian was appointed managing director of the prospective Chiltern franchise. He led the Chiltern Railways MBO team which won the franchise at privatisation, serving as managing director and later as chairman of the business from 1994 to 2011. He knew that the only way to be successful as a franchise was to grow the business, which he did very successfully though a handpicked team, more than doubling passenger numbers during his tenure. Certainly, at the start, no one would have expected that this part of Network SouthEast would soon be running intercity style trains to and from Birmingham Moor Street. It was said that he knew everyone at Chiltern by name and they all knew him as he insisted on meeting all new recruits.

He was also a non-executive board member of the Railway Safety & Standards Board (RSSB), and chairman of the Association of Train Operating Companies. Part of his work with RSSB included chairing the Adhesion Working Party whose remit was to seek to eliminate the cost and delays arising from autumn leaf fall, with a great deal of success. He also chaired the London Overground operating concession, Tyne & Wear Metro operating franchise, DB Regio UK (Deutsch Bahn), Laing Rail, and the West Midlands CBI Council.

Following his retirement from Chiltern, Adrian became the founder and chairman of Vivarail Ltd, aiming to provide upcycled ex-London Underground District line trains for secondary and branch lines. Vivarail also developed low-cost battery and diesel hybrid technology.

Some of his Vivarail colleagues have paid tribute to him. Andy Hamilton, product support director and assurance lead, said

grateful for the opportunities he afforded me, a mentor who would always offer wise if sometimes challenging advice, a fellow Engineer to share challenges with, and a friend.”

Dave Horton, Vivarail’s chief mechanical engineer, observed that “as one of the last people to work directly for Adrian, it truly has been a privilege to know this man. Apart from his vision, determination, drive and all those excellent qualities that made him a great leader, and will no doubt be talked about at length in the coming weeks, underneath all that he was just a very nice human being, with a great sense of humour”.

Adrian also served as Chairman of SLC Rail, a company that applies the lessons learned during Chiltern’s Evergreen and other infrastructure projects to help local authorities and others negotiate the process for their railway plans – for example constructing a new parkway station.

Ian Walters, Managing Director of SLC Rail said: “I am deeply saddened by the passing of this great man. I met Adrian on my first day working in the rail industry in November 1991, and I feel lucky and honoured to have had his mentorship and friendship since then. As chairman of SLC Rail, we have benefited from Adrian’s leadership, wisdom and experience – and focus on what worked for passengers – as we’ve grown as a business. It has been a privilege to have him as part of the SLC team for so many years. It is no exaggeration that his involvement and advocacy has been fundamental to our success and our work will continue his unrivalled legacy. Our thoughts and condolences are with his

Another tribute came from Thomas Ableman, currently director of Strategy and Innovation at Transport for London and formerly Commercial Director at Chiltern Railways. He said: “I’m risking offending every other boss I’ve had, but Adrian Shooter was unique. He was passionate about customers and passionate about revenue. He knew that customers meant revenue, which meant you could do more for customers –which would, in turn, get you more revenue. It’s so obvious but it’s also a lesson that is so often not learned. More than ever, we need people like Adrian.”

These tributes were typical of the many comments by people who had worked for Adrian and have seen their careers progress as a result.

His career of more than 50 years was marked by the unveiling of a statue in his image at London’s Marylebone station on August 30 and the naming of Chiltern Railways’ pioneering diesel multiple-unit 168 001, as ‘Adrian Shooter CBE’. Knowing Adrian, he was probably proud and embarrassed in equal measure. Those who knew him might have thought he took as much pride and pleasure from demonstrating the battery powered class 230 train at COP26, including a demonstration run over the Forth Bridge.

Adrian was working until very recently and, in August 2022, was able to address a very large audience of the Retired Railway Officers Society at the Derby Conference Centre where, as a young trainee, he would have spent time when it was one of BR’s training centres.

Rail Media sends it thoughts and sympathy to Adrian’s family and friends at this sad time.

SAVE LIVES NEW ONLINE TOOL WILL

Samaritans suicide prevention training is set to save more lives as it launches its online learning platform.

Samaritans suicide prevention experts have come together with Network Rail to develop an innovative digital platform providing rail staff and their managers with bite-size learning to give them the confidence and tools to help vulnerable people and make life-saving interventions across the railway.

After a challenging few years, and continued uncertainties which have tested the nation’s mental health, the online platform comes at a time when the charity is urging rail staff, now more than ever, to look out for passengers and start a conversation if they see someone who looks like they need help. Since the Samaritans’ partnership with Network Rail began in 2010, the charity has trained over 26,000 rail staff in suicide prevention giving them the confidence to save lives.

Provided as a ‘go-to’ platform for helpful resources, the new Suicide Prevention Learning Tool offers both a learning development opportunity for those who are new to suicide prevention and a refresher to accompany the charity’s three hour, in person, Managing Suicidal Contacts training course. It’s designed to be accessible to all rail staff whether they’re in the office on a desktop, or out and about, on site or at

a station, on a mobile phone or tablet.

The online platform includes a variety of learning options for rail staff and their managers, such as:

• A quick reference guide: for reminders pre-shift or in an emergency, as well as helpful contact numbers that may be needed during an intervention.

• ‘Refresh, Sustain and Develop’ guided learning course: modules that follow recommended steps for intervention from ‘Identify and Safety’, ‘Tell and Approach’, through to ‘Move and Refer’, and features real life interventions inspired by rail staff’s own experiences.

• A Managers’ toolkit: a section for managers to provide briefings and training for their teams.

ESSENTIAL SKILLS

John, a signalling manager for Balfour Beatty Rail alongside Network Rail in the North West, has supported the development of the online learning tool and his own experience of helping a suicidal man has inspired one of the real-life videos featured on the tool.

Speaking about the importance of talking and how

suicide prevention training helped him, John said: “Over the years, I’ve had a few people reach out to me with suicidal thoughts and I did my best to try and help them, but I did find it quite challenging, as I was worried that I wasn’t saying the right thing. So, when I was offered the chance to do Samaritans training as part of the rail partnership, I jumped at the chance and, thankfully, have been able to put what I learnt to use to help save a man’s life.

“It actually made me feel quite emotional, in a good way, watching the video in the online learning tool as it brought back the memory of that day – I often wonder if the man is okay now. I’m proud that my experience and what I did will hopefully help others save more lives.”

Network Rail Suicide Prevention Programme Manager, Becky Bray, who has been involved in the tool’s creation says: “The last couple of years have been difficult and will have affected people in different ways. The Suicide Prevention Learning Tool has been updated with 10-minute packages designed to be delivered in team meetings and safety talks, or for staff to go on for their own knowledge too.

“It’s not just a work training course, these are life skills with information on how to identify that someone might be struggling and how you can help them. It might be a passenger or colleague, or it might be a member of your family or a close friend.”

SPOT THE SIGNS

Samaritans’ head of rail programme, Olivia Cayley said: “We are excited to launch the new and improved Suicide Prevention Learning Tool for the rail sector. The tool benefits from 12-years of Samaritans’ training delivery and complements our existing training courses which

aim to equip rail staff with the skills and confidence to spot the signs of someone at risk and intervene to move them to a place of safety. Available to anyone working within the rail industry, the tool provides further learning opportunities on how we can continue to reduce lives lost to suicide on the railway.”

Samaritans has worked in partnership with Network Rail and the wider rail industry since 2010 to reduce lives lost to suicide and support those affected by them. The charity continues to offer its Managing Suicidal Contacts course in person or virtually, as well as its Trauma

Support Training course to help those supporting staff who may have been impacted by fatalities or trauma on the railways. For more information on booking onto a course, you can email railcompanies@samaritans.org.

To access the new Suicide Prevention Learning Tool, rail staff can login and register with a work email address at www.railsuicideprevention.co.uk.

When life is difficult, Samaritans are here – day or night, 365 days a year. You can call them for free on 116 123, email them at jo@samaritans.org, or visit www.samaritans.org to find your nearest branch.

Rail has long been one of the most eco-friendly ways to travel, but for the benefit of both staff and passengers there is still much to do when it comes to cleaning up air quality, both on and off the train.

Studies have shown that when diesel trains are idling inside enclosed train stations, the air quality is of particular concern for station staff and passengers alike.

Funded by the Department for Transport, the Stations Air Quality Monitoring Network (AQMN), launched a new programme in 2021 to monitor air quality at stations across England and Wales.

Some proactive rail operators are already taking action by adding innovative new elements to station interiors to help make them safer and more attractive for staff and passengers. Stations such as Portsmouth Harbour, Weymouth, Southampton, Birmingham New Street, and more, are installing living walls to create a healthier environment for people to work and spend time in.

Studies have shown that in the UK, we spend around 80-90% of our time indoors. There’s significant evidence which shows the benefits of adding plants and living walls to our workplaces and indoor spaces, from schools and stations to hospitals and offices.

AIR QUALITY

Measurable Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) is a key indicator which shows the health and safety of our indoor spaces. There is substantial evidence demonstrating the ability of plants to remove volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from the air. In fact, plants can cut CO2 levels in indoor spaces by a quarter.

Living walls provide the opportunity to put large quantities of toxinreducing plants into stations without taking up any valuable floor space. What’s more, they produce their own fresh air, so as well as improving working conditions, well-designed living walls can even save on energy consumption and ventilation costs as fewer air changes are required.

WELLBEING

The installation of living walls boosts staff and passenger wellbeing in several ways. Studies show that being surrounded by plants is good for our mental health, while cleaner air means fewer headaches and better overall health.

Adding more greenery into the station makes staff and passengers’ surroundings more relaxing and aesthetically pleasing, encouraging more people onto the rail network and enhancing both employee and customer satisfaction.

Living walls also reduce noise within the station by absorbing, diffracting, and reflecting sound. This works particularly well in spaces with hard surfaces such as marble walls, exposed concrete, and stone floors such as those found in many stations. Reducing noise and improving acoustics within the station will lead to lower stress levels in both staff and commuters.

BETTER WORKING ENVIRONMENT

Many studies have shown that when people can see greenery whilst they work, their creativity, productivity, and concentration levels all increase.

In a report by Echo Research, employees said their motivation levels would increase by 62% if their employers took steps to improve their surroundings. They also estimated that

they would be 30% more productive as a result. Factors such as greenery, ventilation, and natural light were cited as the most important factors for greater workplace satisfaction.

Additionally, the British Council for Offices reported that 45% of employees would change jobs for a better working environment, even if their salary, role, and benefits remained the same.

A PLEASANT AND RELAXING ENVIRONMENT

South Western Railway commissioned Biotecture to design and manufacture a number of living walls at three stations across the South West, as part of a wider strategy to improve the public realm, increase biodiversity and tackle air pollution.

Living walls have now been installed at Weymouth, Hampton Court, and Portsmouth Harbour stations with more to follow. The living walls were created using PlantBox, a stackable, modular living wall system which is ideal for smaller projects.

The UK-manufactured PlantBox system is made from 100% recycled materials

and, because it’s modular, it can also be dismantled and reused in other locations in the future, making it an extremely sustainable choice.

Biotecture’s installation team worked with the station managers to assemble PlantBox on site, quickly and easily. The troughs had been pre-planted in their West Sussex Nursery and were then transported to site to be installed.

Each living wall features a simple, yet clever, irrigation system which can be connected to a tap for easy, low maintenance watering. The result is a series of beautiful, eye-catching walls which enrich the environment for both staff and passengers, whilst cleaning the air by removing harmful toxins.

“At SWR, our mission is more than simply getting people from A to B,” said Amy Dickinson, head of sustainability at South Western Railway. “We’re passionate about helping to support the communities we serve, including making them greener and more sustainable. By improving air quality and providing a safe home for all sorts of wildlife, this brilliant new Living Wall at Portsmouth Harbour Station does just this.”

This project is a great example of how living walls can make a huge statement about an operator’s commitment to sustainability, whilst making an even bigger difference to the health and wellbeing of the people who use its stations. South Western Railway is not alone in adopting them.

For example, the 77-metre-long living wall on the link bridge at New Street Station in Birmingham, welcomes travellers from all over the country to the centre of the city. With its 16,600 plants, it creates a pleasant promenade of calming, green infrastructure within the built urban environment.

For more information on Biotecture’s living walls, including more examples of how they are being used to transform urban spaces, visit www.biotecture.uk.com.

OF BALGRAY TUNNEL UNCOVERING THE SECRETS

Constructed in 1896, Balgray Tunnel lies under the busy Kelvinside area of Glasgow, in the city’s West End. Built to carry the Lanarkshire and Dunbartonshire Railway through Balgray Hill, it is now all but abandoned.

The tunnel is one of more than 3,000 former railway structures maintained by National Highways Historical Railways Estate (HRE) on behalf of owners, the Department for Transport.

Though the tunnel has been closed since 1964, it still requires regular inspections to ensure it remains safe and in good order, and until now techniques such as ground penetrating radar, drilling and visual inspections have been used to check for hidden shafts and highlight potential issues.

This year, however, National Highways, working together with infrastructure investigation firm Geoptic, employed an innovative technique to better understand the tunnel and unveil its hidden secrets.

COSMIC RAYS

Geoptic is a specialist in ‘muon tomography’ and offers its services to the civil engineering sector.

“We’re a spin out company from the University of Sheffield, the University of Durham, and St Mary’s University, Twickenham,” says Professor Lee Thompson, the company’s technical director. “Our core business is in the field of muon tomography. As physicists we have the background and the understanding to build the appropriate instrumentation and the ability to interpret the data that comes back.”

Muon tomography is based on the measurement of harmless background radiation and its use allows Geoptic to see through hundreds of metres of soil and rock, or equivalent materials such as concrete.

“The best way to describe it is using the analogy of a medical X-Ray,” says Lee. “The reason we have X-rays is to enable us to look inside an object without having to open it up. They’re totally noninvasive and non-destructive.”

Muons are nature’s X-rays. They’re high energy particles, created indirectly as decay products of collisions of cosmic rays with particles of the Earth's atmosphere. They are highly penetrating, travelling to the Earth’s surface from space and passing through manmade and natural structures. Around 10,000 cosmic ray muons pass through each square metre of ground every minute.

When detectors are placed below an object of interest, you can measure how many muons are absorbed as they pass through the area. This information can be used to build up an image of the object including any previously hidden attributes. Muon tomography is therefore extremely useful in imaging the interior of large engineering structures.

The technology is not especially new. It was used in 1971 to look for hidden chambers in pyramids, a more recent survey in 2017 led to the discovery of secret chambers and rooms in the Great Pyramid at Giza - unseen since the Pyramid was built over 4500 years ago. The biggest discovery was a 100-feet-long void above the grand gallery.

Muon radiography has also been used to scan volcanoes, including Honshu in Japan and Italy’s Mount Vesuvius, and was even employed to image the highly radioactive Fukushima nuclear reactor complex after the 2011 earthquake.

Geoptic, however, has now adapted the process for use in railway tunnels and the Balgray survey is the first time the technology has been used on an HRE tunnel.

WHY BALGRAY?

Over the years, HRE has gathered extensive data on Balgray Tunnel and how it was constructed. However, employing muon tomography should help the organisation confirm its own information, specifically around the location of blind shafts along the route of the 650-metre tunnel.

During the Victorian era, engineers constructed shafts along the line of a tunnel to speed up the construction process and help maintain the tunnel's alignment; particularly on curves. When a tunnel was completed some of the shafts would be kept for ventilation and

others capped at both ends or back-filled and assumed stable. Being able to locate and survey hidden closed shafts and other voids in the structure is important for maintenance and safety of the tunnel.

In addition, since the tunnel was constructed over 100 years ago, the landscape above it has changed significantly, so it’s important that HRE has the most up to date information to maintain the structure.

“We chose Balgray tunnel because it's a tunnel that we've got quite a lot of background information on already,” said Colin McNicol from HRE. “We've carried out ground penetrating radar surveys, and microgravity surveys at the surface, as well. We know there are blind shafts in Balgray and we've got a good idea as to where they are. In conversation with Geoptic we chose to carry out a survey in Balgray so that they could effectively benchmark their equipment against the results that we've already got.”

WHY MUONS?

Muon tomography offers practical benefits and advantages over other scanning techniques.

“There are challenges to identifying hidden voids,” says Lee. “Other surveying techniques such as ground penetrating radar, drilling, and visual inspections, have been used to check for hidden shafts and highlight potential issues in the past - although these can be invasive and some come with associated health and safety hazards such as working from height on scaffolding. In contrast Geoptic’s innovative instrumentation doesn’t require any contact with the tunnel lining.

“Working at Balgray was a different experience to similar surveys that Geoptic has performed for Network Rail. The fact that Balgray is a disused railway tunnel enabled the team to perform the surveys during the day whereas Geoptic’s recent survey work on Network Rail’s Wales and Western region naturally experienced the time constraints that come with limiting access to the tracks to overnight line blocks or possessions. Similarly, for Network Rail surveys we deploy

our equipment on pairs of link trolleys and roll it along the track, in the case of Balgray Geoptic was able to modify its equipment so that it was sat inside the back of a pickup truck, which made access a lot easier - we just drove the truck into the tunnel.

“Before the survey started, we developed a digital twin of the tunnel using detailed geological data which informed us how many muons we expected to see at any point in the tunnel. Then, inside the tunnel, we used our instruments to measure the number of muons at different points.

“Differences between what we expect to see and what we actually observe can be interpreted as differences in density in the structure of the tunnel compared with that we assumed in our digital twin. As well as identifying hidden voids and shafts our instruments can return valuable information on the shaft position, size, and extent.”

RESULTS

The results of the survey are currently being assessed to see if future works will be planned. After more than two weeks of surveying, Geoptic now has 500 data sets to crunch, and it’s too early to discuss the outcome of the survey in depth. However, Lee and Colin are confident that the trial will yield positive results.

“I’m sure when we get the analysis back, it’ll be another ringing endorsement for Muon Tomography as a useful piece of technology for surveying and identifying anomalies,” says Colin.

The potential applications of Muon tomography are huge, particularly for HRE. Inspections of historic railway tunnels are a key part of HRE’s maintenance routine and if the Balgray Tunnel trial is successful it could use the technology in other surveys. Similarly, if the trial is successful the technology will certainly have applications on the UK rail network.

“We were delighted to work with National Highways to provide the first HRE muon tunnel survey and we hope this is a collaboration we will be able to continue in the future,” said Lee.

THE TIMES,

THEY ARE A-CHANGING

Iam convinced that both the Office of Rail and Road (ORR) and Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) are performing well. Legal considerations, however, can result in delays to the implementation of RAIB recommendations. In the worst cases accidents may occur which might have been avoided if earlier accident or incident recommendations had been accepted and more timely action had been taken.

Arguably, the Covid pandemic has significantly changed both work patterns and the lifestyles of many people, which together with the financial situation is affecting us all. I expect it to gather momentum. The challenge is how we move forward with an improved and safer railway for freight, passengers, and those who work on our railways.

Runaway engineering train

On 20 October, the RAIB published a news story about an unattended runaway engineer’s train at Liverpool Street Station. The incident occurred on 2 October at 11:52. The train ran away from platform 3 and the signaller was alerted to the train’s movement by track sections in the throat of the station showing occupied unexpectedly. The train travelled for 150 metres but stopped within the engineering possession limits. Although there were no injuries, the train ran through and damaged a set of points. RAIB has decided to publish a Safety Digest.

False flanges and a cement wagon in the river

Also published on 20 October, another RAIB news story described a freight train derailment that occurred the previous day at Petteril Bridge Junction, Carlisle. The freight train that derailed was a Class 66 locomotive hauling 14 loaded cement wagons. Five of the wagons derailed and one of them came to rest in the river below. Substantial damage was caused to the railway infrastructure and the wagons. The Newcastle to Carlisle railway was blocked as a result. The RAIB

has said that the cause “was almost certainly a result of a wheelset with false flanges encountering a set of switches that form part of the junction”. In explanation it adds that false flanges form when wheel treads are flattened by wheels ceasing to rotate whilst a vehicle is running.

An 800-tonne capacity crane was assembled using a smaller crane and was then used to lift the three 80-tonne capacity cement wagons back onto the railway during the Remembrance weekend. The RAIB was then able to complete its site examination and work began to restore the rail infrastructure which included track, signalling, and some 41 metres of parapet plus associated bridge repairs. The replacement shuttle bus service continued with a target date for full restoration of train services by the beginning of December. RAIB’s investigation will establish the sequence of events, track and wagon conditions, wagon characteristics, the trains braking system, and “any underlying management factors”.

When the report is released, it will be interesting to see whether there are any new lessons to be learnt and just how

this derailment compares with previous freight train derailments including those at Llangennech and Sheffield Station. With the developments made in digital automatic coupling systems and even driverless freight trains, surely the time is ripe for the provision of reliable and accurate hot axle box detectors, and for steps to be taken to ensure that all freight carrying trains are better equipped and maintained, with due regard to the nature of their cargoes?

Colin Wheeler.

For the future, I believe the UK needs to update and improve its freight trains (both wagons and locomotives) and by so doing reduce the environmental impact of moving freight around the country. Environmentally, there is a strong case for the latest Rail Minister to push ahead with switching more freight traffic to the railway.

The Llangennech accident was caused by a freight train wheelset becoming locked. The RAIB report published on 13th January this year made nine recommendations. They included a review of braking system designs, and the processes for regulatory oversight. There are two recommendations for the “improvement of the management of wagon

maintenance on the railways of Great Britain”. Also “a review of the technology and systems used to alert traincrew, signallers, and control offices to wagon defects that may lead to derailments.” Equally important, I suggest, is the call for a review of “arrangements for regulatory oversight of entities in charge of maintenance and certification bodies that are not based in the UK.” I suggest the rate of progress on all the recommendations needs to be a priority. For environmental and safety reasons, a national initiative to increase rail freight dramatically is needed, but rail freight derailments due to inadequate wagon maintenance must become just a bad memory first.

Nottingham tram derailment

On 28 October the RAIB reported this tram derailment that occurred near Highbury Vale Tram Stop on 30 September. The tram derailed at a set of points just south of the tram stop. It had travelled north from David Lane and was to take the left-hand route towards Phoenix Park. Although the tram was in service when the derailment occurred, there were no passengers on board. As the tram reached the toe of the switches the points moved to a mid-position causing the derailment. The tram was travelling at 11kmph. There were no injuries but there was damage to both the tram itself and the infrastructure. The RAIB has decided to publish a Safety Digest after their initial investigation.

Trench excavation injury

Network Rail’s Safety Central website includes a Safety Bulletin NRB 22-07 about yet another injury accident involving a trench collapse. Two groups of five workers were using trenches 1.6 metres deep in the highway for new ducting whilst the trenches were supported by a proprietary trench support system. Instead of coming out of the trench to install the next section of support, one worker chose to walk along the unsupported trench. The trench side of clay fell on the worker bruising his hip as it did so. Maybe that individual should now be asked to tell others about the mistake made in attempting to short cut the work plan.

Passenger train accident at Enfield Town

On 9 November, the RAIB published an unusual news story following completion of their investigation into a collision between a passenger train and a buffer stop at Enfield Town on 12 October. At 08:21 that morning the train ran into the platform 2 buffer stop and “came to a stand with its front end raised on top of the buffer stop”. It was the 07:45 service from London Liverpool Street. Seventy-five passengers were on the train and two received treatment at the scene for minor injuries. The RAIB has completed its investigation but received representation from the Crown Prosecution Service about active legal proceedings. Consequently, the RAIB “decided not to place a copy of the final investigation report on their website at this time”.

Paddington Station RAIB Safety Digest

This recently published Safety Digest refers to “ensuring deviations from planned safe systems of work are authorised by the responsible manager”. It emphasises that Controllers of Site Safety (COSS) should always remain with their work group while they are on or near the line to ensure they can personally observe and monitor them”. When the two blue helmet wearing workers were involved in the very near miss, they were part of a four-person team maintaining signalling and communications equipment led by a COSS. Two teams were planned for the possession work. When the workers met at 18:00 hours they were short on numbers, and it was decided that they would work as a single team under the one Person in Charge (PIC). The manager was not informed and safe work packs were not updated.

A “lifting incident” fatality

This accident was reported on Safety Central in a Safety Bulletin published on 25 October. On the evening of 21 July, work was underway at Gatwick Station on a project to install lift shafts. Before the planned possession began, the team were laying out the small sections of steelwork. During the last crane lift, the connection plate at the foot of the glazing frame (weighing around 500kg) became caught on the underside of a movement joint approximately 65mm above the deck. Consequently, the glazing frame turned and the lifting strop supporting it snapped due to the continued force from the crane. “This caused the frame to fall, resulting in fatal injuries to the Slinger Signaller.”

The bulletin goes on to refer to the need for adequately planned lift plans, supervision during lifts, understanding, and levels of assurance. It ends with the message “if the lift plan cannot be worked to, things change, or it is not safe - STOP WORK”.

In a frank interview some time ago, Network Rail’s Andrew Haines said, “the industry’s tendency of talking up its brilliant safety culture is often wide of the mark. There are still too many instances of people on track who are not supervised and where lapses and breaches occur.”

I live in hope of a safer railway for both rail workers and the users of all rail services. Political delays to the reorganisation of our railways, the necessary focus on the environment and rail finances provides new opportunities, but also risks.

Safety Bulletin

A serious incident has taken place

Lifting Incident

Scope: All Network Rail line managers, safety professionals and accredited contractors

Ref: NRB22-10

Date: 24/10/2022

Location: Gatwick Station, Southern region

Contact: Alan Cheun, Group SHE Operations Director, Costain

Overview

On the evening of Thursday 21st July 2022 works were being undertaken on the Gatwick Station Project to install lift shafts.

The team were laying out several small sections of the steel structure ahead of a possession, to allow them to work efficiently once their possession started and minimise any time pressures.

During the final lift, ahead of the possession, the connection plate at the foot of a glazing frame weighing approximately 500Kg became caught on the underside of a movement joint which was approximately 65mm above the deck.

Discussion points

How are you assuring yourself that:

Lifting operations are adequately planned and associated lift plans clearly identify:

o Methods of slinging

o Exclusion Zones

o Where people are positioned during lifts The hazards presented by the immediate environment

This resulted in the glazing frame turning and the lifting strop supporting it rapidly snapping due to the continued force from the crane.

This caused the frame to fall which resulted in fatal injuries to the Slinger Signaller.

The lift plans are understood and being worked to, consider:

o Levels of supervision during lifting

o How you test for knowledge to ensure understanding?

o Do you have the right levels of assurance in place?

Reinforce the message that if the lift plan cannot be worked to, things change, or it is not safe - STOP WORK

Safety Summit

Book your delegate place or contact us for sponsorship opportunities at this essential rail event

Call 01530 816 456 visit railsummits.com email events@rail-media.com

Rail Safety Summit 2023

14th March Holywell Park Conference Centre Loughborough University

We’re used to hearing phrases like ‘Safety First’. They’re a reminder that safety is never off the agenda.

Britain’s railways have maintained an enviable safety record in recent years, but reports of incidents and near misses demonstrate that there is room for improvement.

Register for the Rail Safety Summit to hear HSEQ leaders from RAIB and Network Rail discuss the issues that matter.

Speakers confirmed for 2023 so far:

• Andrew Hall, Chief Inspector, Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB)

• Ian Prosser, HM Chief Inspector of Railways and Director of Railway Safety, Office of Rail Regulation

• John Jebson, OHSE Director, McGinley Support Services (Infrastructure)

• Marian Kelly, Head of SHE, London Underground

• Nick Millington, Acting Route Director, Wales and Borders Route, Network Rail

• Peter Dearman, Independent Consultant (Former Engineering Director, Atkins), Dearman Engineering

• Prof Sarah Sharples, Professor of Human Factors, Nottingham University

• James Le Grice, Head of Rail Safety and Standards, Department for Transport (DfT)

• Ali Chegini, Director of System Safety and Health, RSSB

• Rupert Lown, Chief Health & Safety Officer, Network Rail

• Leo Scott Smith, CEO, Tended

2022 A YEAR LIKE NO OTHER

COLIN WHEELER TAKES A LOOK BACK AT ACCIDENTS AND INCIDENTS THROUGH 2022 AND GIVES US HIS RECOMMENDATIONS FOR IMPROVING SAFETY IN 2023 AND BEYOND.

Iexpect to heave a huge sigh of relief when 2022 comes to an end. This year has been marked by events that should not have taken place.

Looking back, I recall the accident at Toton Depot where wagons were left unsecured in sidings and ran away. I remember a near miss on a user worked crossing in Anglia which resulted in a Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) Safety Digest focussing on the Thetford signalling workstation and which commented “there were no formal criteria for making a decision to grant permission to cross.” In another incident in Anglia, a mobility scooter was struck by a train on a crossing when there was insufficient time for its user to cross. Fortunately, there were no injuries. Thankfully there were no injuries either when a large tractor and trailer were demolished by a train on a user worked farm crossing.

CAUGHT AND DRAGGED

“Caught and dragged” incidents have been a recurrent feature of 2022. For instance, a passenger was dragged for 20 metres at Wood Street Station in northeast London, having a hand trapped in a door. There have been more such incidents at Seven Sisters, Wembley Central, and Crouch Hill. A similar incident at Shudhill tram stop on the Manchester Trams system is another but, I believe, there are many more.

NEAR MISSES

In the March/April edition of Railstaff, the derailment of a freight train at London Gateway was discussed together with “a frightening near miss when a chopped down tree fell into the cess at Uphill Junction near Weston super Mare.” Another near miss occurred at Sharnbrook in the West Midlands when a Lookout Warning System (LOWS) controller erroneously cancelled a warning.

TRAGEDY AT CARMONT

The publication of the report into the Carmont Stonehaven accident which resulted in three fatalities added the involvement of

the Office for Rail and Road (ORR), as well as RAIB and the Aberdeen based Procurator Fiscal. The cause was established as the failure of a new drain that had not been built in accordance with the design and specification of the works. The changed design was not identified as wrong and inadequate by either the contractor or Network Rail. The investigations discovered that seven years had elapsed without the drain being inspected. The RAIB report included recommended actions and queried the competency training given to operating staff. There are no fewer than 20 recommendations in that report, most of which are more widely applicable.

INJURIES AND LARGER FINES

By the middle of the year, the reports of permanent injuries and large fines led me to question just how management and organisations, as well as individuals were getting it wrong. These included “life changing and catastrophic injuries to a worker crushed between machines”, resulting in a fine of £1.4 million. The burning out of a DC substation was expected but should not have

occurred; replacement of the substation was planned work which had been delayed more than once. Also significant, and I know there were others, there was the injury caused by an unsupported trench collapse at Stoke on Trent that resulted in ORR instituted prosecutions.

A timely reminder of the mantra “test before you touch” when using mobile elevated work platforms (MEWPS) to access the overhead line was provided following a wrong assumption that an isolation had been taken. Fortunately, there were no injuries. In the early days of the Health and Safety at Work Act I remember that individuals, as well as (or sometimes instead of) their employing organisations were prosecuted. Latterly, the focus seems to have shifted on to the employer.

AN END TO “RED ZONE” WORKING AT LAST?

The RAIB report of the fatal accident at Surbiton, where the Controller of Site Safety (COSS) leading a track inspection was struck by a train and killed, revealed that carrying out the work under lookout protection “had

not been challenged”. This led to the well overdue decision by Network Rail to “eliminate unassisted lookout working”. This is a longawaited decision, which hopefully will be vigorously pursued by all who work on railways.

Also published in the July/August edition of Railstaff was an article referring to the rise in drug and alcohol testing failures. Over three periods, each I assume of four weeks, 16 individuals were found to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol and should not have been at work. Apart from the direct action taken, I suggest random unannounced testing may need to increase.

Other accidents this year included a footpath level crossing fatality which was a reminder of the large number of such crossings that rely on users remembering to obey the displayed instruction boards. At Farnborough North, emergency braking was needed to avoid a collision.

The competency of a train driver was also questioned when, at Doncaster, one freight train crashed into the rear of another stationary train derailing a wagon. Also reported was a near miss between an empty passenger train and a rail grinding/profiling train.

TIMES ARE CHANGING

During my working life with British Rail as a civil engineer I worked in Leeds, York, Newcastle, and Manchester and even in London at various times. Each city had congestion during the morning and evening rush hours. Buses, cars, bicycles, local trains, metros and trams were used; and those who could do so often avoided the busiest times.

The Covid Pandemic has radically altered many people’s daily patterns, with flexible and remote working now becoming the norm. The expansion and funding of Metro, tram, underground railways, and suburban train services is therefore not likely to go back to how it was before the pandemic.

Surely with changing commuter patterns and more flexible working days, options for more regular working shifts for drivers should soon be possible, and bring a reduction in risk?

Arguably there has rarely been a more opportune time than now for a step change improvement to all services, light and heavy, freight and passenger. A positive outcome of the pandemic could be that it opens many opportunities which benefit us all.

Ultimately, for management and organisations to work safely on our railways, metros and tramways we need management who earn and retain the respect of their staff. You can call it “real management” which relies on individuals wanting to do a good job. It also needs, to use a phrase preferred by academia, a high degree of expertise and understanding of ‘Human Factors’.

PRIORITIES FOR 2023 AND BEYOND

Sitting down and discussing face to face with those who make the railways and trams work, and how best to be both more efficient and safer for rail staff and the public, needs to be a shared priority. Some questions that need answering include:

• How can we best take advantage of a reduction in commuting at peak times and use it to increase safe scheduled daytime track working?

• How can we speed up implementation of RAIB and ORR inquiries and reports?

• How can we speed up the spread of energy-saving city tram and metro systems?

• How can we switch the majority of heavy freight traffic from road to rail?

• How can cooperation and communication between management and those doing the work be improved, so that work is always done using the best work plans with staff wanting to follow them to the letter?

Here’s looking to a safer 2023.

CELEBRATING THE INDUSTRY'S UNSUNG HEROES

The extraordinary efforts of the rail industry’s devoted workforce was recognised on 24 November as the RailStaff Awards returned in style at Birmingham’s NEC. From rail managers to customer service assistants, apprentices to training managers, the full breadth and depth of job roles were represented at the Awards, which received a record 143,000 votes to decide the finalists.

The shimmering scenery of the RailStaff Awards’ sparkling Ski Resort provided the inspiration for this year’s celebration. Guests were welcomed into a bustling alpine party village, complete with log cabins, entering the scene through a snow-dusted, fir tree

forest. Once inside, they mingled with old friends at the venue’s double-storey ski lodge - which featured VIP section sponsored by Total Rail Solutions - before being seated for a delicious meal ahead of the awards ceremony.

Comedian and actor Ed Byrne compèred the evening’s events, keeping everyone in stitches all night. Once every category winner had been named and welcomed on stage, the real party began, as a raft of after-dinner entertainment appeared to take everyone’s experience into the early hours. With casino tables open and indoor fairground rides whirring away, the dance floor welcomed those with the energy to dance the night away. Throughout the evening, guests were welcome to make a memento of the occasion at the Igloo photo booth, sponsored by D2 Rail.

The occasion was another huge success for the RailStaff Awards. Adam O’Connor, Managing Director of Rail Media said:

“I have been absolutely overjoyed to once again invite the rail industry to the RailStaff Awards 2022 after putting it on hold for the last couple of years. The RailStaff Awards was launched in 2007 by Tom O’Connor as an event like no other that recognises those people in our industry who go above and beyond on a daily basis. It is humbling to be able to stage this event and see the impact it has on the rail industry and its amazing work force. I would like to congratulate every winner and highly commended individual, as well as all of the finalists and nominees.

“My thanks go out to our sponsors and supporters, without whom we would be unable to put on such a fantastic event, with special thanks going to Total Rail Solutions for their continued support. Our sponsors play key roles in our industry and their support is greatly appreciated. Thanks also to our panel of judges, and the whole team at Rail Media for their sterling determination in putting on a great event.

“The atmosphere was electric. I am immensely proud to be able to do what we do, and to see the joy that the event brought to so many. Thank you one and all.”

THANK YOU

The event would not be possible if it weren’t for a few very special groups. The RailStaff Awards would like to express its gratitude to all who nominated and made their colleagues feel special by recognising their hard work. A huge thank you also goes to those who engaged with the awards

process, whether that’s through judging, voting, or attending the ceremony.

And last, but by no means least, the RailStaff Awards also thanks its sponsors: Advance TRS, Amey Consulting, Bodyguard Workwear Ltd, CIRAS, City & Guilds, D2 Rail, G&W’s UK/Europe Region, GeoAccess,

Govia Thameslink Railway, Heathrow Express, McGinley, Ontrak Recruitment, Resourcing Solutions, Rhomberg Sersa Rail, Samaritans, Telent, Total Rail Solutions, Transport Benevolent Fund CIO, and Young Rail Professionals.

Event organiser Gemma King said:

“And so we bring a close to yet another memorable RailStaff Awards. We hope you all enjoyed a magical night at the RailStaff Ski Resort and congratulations, once more, to the winners.

You’ve all earned your place in the RailStaff Awards hall of fame.”

NEVER TOO LATE TO LEARN

Bob Bryce of Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) was named Apprentice of the Year at the 2022 Rail Staff Awards. He became an inspiration for others across the world after completing an NVQ level 3 apprenticeship course at the age of 76. The course he undertook involved project work, task analysis, and Maths and English tests, all of which Bob passed despite leaving school over 60 years ago. As he came near to completing his course it became apparent that Bob was the country’s oldest apprentice, and he was interviewed by 19 different news organisations including Sky, BBC World Service and Channel 4.

Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) sponsored the award this year. GTR was named by

the Department of Transport as one of the country’s top apprenticeship employers, and Bob was quick to sing the company’s praises.

“I’m just overwhelmed by this,” said Bob. “My father always told me if you work for a good employer, always give 110%, and I just followed his advice. If you tell yourself, you can’t do something then you’ll fail, but if you believe in yourself, you’ll succeed. I’ve gone and done it, even at my age, and it feels incredible!”

Steve Lammin, presenter of the Award and GTR’s engineering director, returned the appreciation. “As a former apprentice once myself, it was a great honour to present the award for Apprentice of the Year at the Rail Staff Awards,” he said.

“GTR strives to continually develop exciting talent and diversity into and through our business, providing multiple

points of entry into our industry. The apprentice scheme is an important part of this. Bob is a fantastic demonstration, and hopefully an inspiration to many in how it is never too late to continue to develop new skills, knowledge, and opportunities throughout your career, the railway and within GTR.”

that he is an extremely competent and adaptable professional with incredible people skills and emotional intelligence. He proactively sought out opportunities to extend his professional development and impressed colleagues with his dedication, compassion, and professionalism.

Highly

commended Chloe Farrell, Merseyrail Marnie McKay, Atkins

HITTING THE GROUND RUNNING

Louis Szymanski of D2 Rail proudly took home the Graduate or Newcomer of the Year Award. Since joining D2 Rail in August 2020, he has made a significant

On top of this, Louis also founded D2Rail’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion group, and volunteers on the TRU West Equality, Diversity and Inclusion group as an ED&I Champion. His goal is to help make strides in equality, diversity, and inclusion within the industry.

Speaking of his achievement, Louis thanked his

Govia Thameslink Railway is proud

companies would do.”

The Graduate or Newcomer Award was sponsored by City & Guilds, the UK’s leader in skills development and apprenticeship schemes. The organisation has worked for over 140 years with people, organisations, and economies to help them identify and develop the skills they need to thrive. Andy Moss, Managing Director Employer Solutions at City & Guilds Group, presented the Award.

“At City & Guilds, we’re all about skills and jobs,” said Andy. “In many ways, this award embodies the work we do. It’s about celebrating the people coming into this amazing sector where they can build great careers. What I love about being part of this is the diversity of the candidates coming through and seeing people from a wide range of backgrounds succeed. Rail is a great example of how you can build a really exciting future for yourself.”

ScotRail’s Nicola Dawson fits more than most into her working day. As well as being the company’s audit, risk and compliance manager, she also dedicates her time to countless good causes, going above and beyond to help improve other people’s lives. Her hard work was celebrated at the RailStaff Awards, as she took the Award for Charity.

Upon joining ScotRail, running fanatic Nicola identified that staff often went out running themselves at lunchtime but there was no formal group. She established a workplace jogging group called Nic’s Noon Runners. Covid 19 put a halt on group runs, but it didn’t stop Nicola who came up with a momentous challenge - to run or cycle the length of the Scotland

route rail network, twice. With only eight people in the team, they smashed it in 11 weeks raising £1860.25 to be split between MND and NHS Charities Together.

Back in 2018, Nicola ran her first ever ultra-marathon, raising over £1700 for Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity. In June 2022, she set herself a bigger challenge and took part in the West Highland Way race - an ultra-marathon running the full 96-mile West Highland Way. She completed it in 27 hours and raised nearly £1500 for Scottish Mountain Rescue. In total she’s raised over £6000 whilst keeping people fit and healthy!

Nicola is also ScotRail Chair of Inspire – the employee network promoting gender equality. She started this role just prior to lockdown and was instrumental in driving events and keeping the network functions throughout the pandemic. For

International Women’s Day 2020 she co-ordinated the running of Scotland’s first all-female staffed train and thereafter hosted an event, with over 70 attendees and speakers.

“I was so pleased to win,” said Nicola, “but also shocked - the quality of all the other nominees was so high!

“Everything I do is runningoriented. I’ve completed a few ultra-marathons now and at work I organise a running group where everyone pays something in for charity. Once I have enough in the pot I’ll make the donation –always to a charity that has some relevance to the work we do.”

“Thank you to everyone who

Highly commended

Susan

GOOD SAMARITAN

Going hand-in-hand with the Award for Charity is the Samaritan’s Lifesaver Award, which recognises workers who have used all their communication skills and training to help protect a life on the rails. Shane Davis, a mobile operations manager at Network Rail, was this year’s winner.

On 5 December 2021, Shane was called to an incident concerning a distressed male who had placed himself on an overbridge, with the railway

Temple, ScotRail Charles Dickson, GTR

conversation. Both Shane and the man opened up, discussing the things that they had both been through and discovering that they had a lot of common ground. They also talked through all of the different options for help. Shane showed real compassion and empathy when this person needed it the most. His quick thinking and perseverance resulted in the man stepping down from the ledge.

Speaking about the incident, Shane’s colleagues commented: “We are all so proud of Shane and grateful that he was on shift that night and was able to make this man's wellbeing his upmost priority. You are a true lifesaver in every sense of the word.”

On the night of the awards, Shane’s humility shone through: “I’m shell shocked, I didn’t expect this at all,” he said. “It’s nice to get a thank you for something we sadly have to do quite often. In this case, I opened up to the man about my own experience of mental health and that’s why this award means a lot to me now. It’s humbling to be able to take my own experience and use it to

help someone else.”

Samaritans is available day or night, for anyone who’s struggling to cope, and who needs someone to listen without judgement or pressure. Across communities, in prisons, schools, hospitals and on the rail network, Samaritans is working with people who are going through a difficult time and training others to do the same. It works tirelessly to reach more people and make suicide prevention a priority.

Olivia Cayley, Samaritan’s Head of Rail Programme, and presenter of the Lifesaver Award said: “The RailStaff Awards are really very important, allowing us to highlight stories like Shane's where people go above and beyond in their day job. They also promote the message that we need to look out for one another, trust our instincts, and strike up a conversation if we think that someone is in need.”

commended Richard Baker, MTR Elizabeth line Amir Aziz, GTR

Samaritans

Award

Highly

is proud to sponsor the Lifesaver

The rail network is kept running safely by countless talented teams and individuals who rarely receive the limelight. The Digital Railway Person or Team Award celebrates these hidden heroes, and highlights the pioneering work carried out by the industry’s signalling and telecommunications specialists.

Network Rail’s Safety Task Force (STF), which took this year’s award, was established to improve the safety of track workers.

13,000 individuals work on the track daily and their families expect them to come home every day. In partnership with track workers and signalling teams, the Safety Task Force works to eliminate unassisted lookout (red zone) working and

to provide improved planning methods, track safety equipment, and training.

In the past two years, the STF’s work has resulted in many benefits, including: a 98% reduction in unassisted lookout working; an increase of around 1.5 million hours of work between near misses; and a 74% reduction in the number of near misses.

The team has also optimised signaller capacity by reviewing each and every signaller workstation; designed and installed 150 Semi Automated Track Warning Systems (SATWS); and identified 3,636 CESS pathways for refurbishment so teams can access the worksite safely.

Nick Millington, Network Rail’s Acting Route Director, Wales Route, said: “I’m really proud that the Safety Task Force team, which operates in every part of the country, has been recognised

for their work improving track worker safety.

“There has been a big shift for the better in safety risk over the last three years, including a 70% reduction in near misses. But there is always more to do in this space, and I am confident that this winning team is focused on delivering more tangible improvements over the next 24 months. Great Stuff!”

This year, the award was proudly sponsored by Amey Consulting. As a key infrastructure services and engineering company, Amey strives to make rail journeys across the UK safer, quicker, and simpler. The firm works around the clock, maintaining the railways by upgrading track and overhead lines, performing regular asset inspections, and installing the latest signalling systems. The dedication and innovation shown by the Safety Task Force, is exactly what Amey was looking for in a winning entry.

Highly commended

Awards. The plant hire specialists took home the Marketing and Communications Team award after an eccentric and innovative campaign launched during Covid.

During the lockdown, John Murphy, Managing Director of AB2K's parent company, Quattro, saw potential in an old Mitsubishi van that was parked in the AB2K yard. With the right design, look and communications strategy, the van would become a phenomenon known as Madmess.

John’s idea was to create an RRV with a twist. The inside

brought smiles to hundreds of rail staff and the public. It also

AB2K Marketing team to pass on his love of the vehicle and followed this up with a recorded video response. The video went viral almost immediately and was celebrated on numerous Madness fan sites.

push the story into the press, well beyond the rail industry, and it featured online and in print across several national publications.

to win the marketing award for AB2K Madmess. Marketing is about taking risks, and that’s something we are fearless to. The Madmess Campaign Rail Staff Award has taken AB2K one step beyond!"

The AB2K team was rightly rewarded for taking a maverick approach and having the bravery to do something different.

Highly commended QTS Marketing Team, QTS Group Ltd

Lynn Crump - G&W Uk (Freightliner)

Connecting the UK rail industry for over 25 years.

THE UK’S LEADING MEDIA GROUP DEDICATED TO THE RAIL INDUSTRY

TOGETHER WE STAND

Rail Team of the Year

Apprentice Team

Great Western Railway

GWR’s apprenticeship team works tirelessly, delivering a young pipeline of talent into the business year after year. Whilst the team is only small, they collectively manage up to 65 apprentices, based at numerous locations across all functions. As part of the various programmes, the team is responsible for delivering many community activities.

The team also operates a 24/7 on-call service for the apprentices. Trained in all areas of safeguarding, the team is truly dedicated to the apprentices’ safety.

Community Ambassadors

South Western Railway

SWR’s volunteer team of community ambassadors have spent the last 14 months bringing their passion for the railway to a whole new set of people, helping to break down barriers to train travel.

For example, ‘Try the Train’ experiences are aimed at individuals and groups who do not have the confidence to travel on the railway. Each trip is organised with one of the Ambassadors and includes a tour of SWR’s station facilities, a short train trip and any extra support participants need.

Ready for actionwhatever the challenge

With over 80 RRVs, a highly experienced team and a superior safety record, we’re ready to support your next project - whether civils, electrification, infrastructure or permanent way.

moon,” he said. “We really were just doing our duty, as always with a keen eye for detail, but it’s great to recognised like this. It’s a pleasure to work for Northern, they’re an amazing company to be part of.”

The Depot Staff Award was sponsored by specialist recruitment consultancy Advance TRS, which has successfully placed hundreds of skilled candidates into major organisations at all levels, and prides itself on consistently supplying quality candidates.

Sam Jennings, Advance TRS’s director of client services and rail signalling said: “The RailStaff Awards is a phenomenal event and it’s so good to see all of the finalists here tonight.

They’ve worked so hard and it’s an incredible achievement to be recognised. Well done to everyone involved!”

Highly commended

Shane Hill, Freightliner

Abbie Wood, Network Rail

DELIVERING STELLAR SERVICE

Afriendly face is what we all hope to see when we’re looking for help and advice in unfamiliar surroundings. The rail industry’s customer service staff are always ready to deliver this despite the pressures their roles can entail.

At this year’s Rail Staff Awards, Southern’s Charles Dickson was handed the Customer Service Award for his dedication to making passenger journeys that little bit easier.

Charles is seen as a local hero at Gipsy Hill stationand for good reason. He has worked at the station for the better part of a decade and has got to know countless customers and staff.

He always greets passengers with a welcoming presence and

wishing them a safe journey. Passengers always leave with a smile on their faces.

Charles’ work ethic and customer service are exceptional. One colleague who nominated him commented on an interaction he had with an elderly passenger:

“One classic example I can remember of Charles' work was when he helped an elderly lady with directions for her train the next day, as well as directions to a specific road within the local area. Charles was warm with his welcome and managed to fit in a few jokes. He even wrote the directions down on a piece of paper for her. An interaction that would normally take up to about two minutes lasted for 15, and they ended up just having a general conversation.”

Charles was typically humble about his award. “I don't know what to say,” he said. “It’s a real

joy to be honoured like this. I want to thank everyone who has supported me over the years and everyone at Gipsy Hill station – they’ve all been so helpful towards me. Thank you to everyone who nominated me too.”

The Customer Service Award was sponsored this year by Ontrak Recruitment and Training, an innovative company that combines traditional and modern recruitment practices to place staff in roles throughout the rail industry.

Company founder and director, Ashley Spence, said: “All railway staff have had a really tough job these past couple of years, but customer service staff have been absolute stars. Customer service

STATION SUPERHERO

Not all superheroes wear capes, but many of them work in the UK’s railway stations. The award for Station Staff of the year went this year to Paul Gregg from Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR).

Paul works at Harpenden station as platform staff, and if you can’t see him, you may well hear him, either whistling a tune or humming. His colleagues often join in without noticing.

Paul is always keen to engage with the public and ensures that he goes beyond expectation, providing customers with a memorable experience while using the service. He is always striving to better himself and has the perfect attitude towards expanding his knowledge

to go above and beyond to help colleagues and customers and possesses a cheery disposition which makes him as popular with staff as it does with customers.

Often when Paul has finished his shift, you’ll still see him at work, either helping a colleague with something or just listening to them. He was even nominated for the RailStaff Awards’ Life saver award, after helping a man who had jumped down onto the tracks.

“I’m absolutely gobsmacked,” said Paul, “this is the last thing I was expecting. Just to be nominated is amazing - I didn't realise I was that well appreciated. This whole event is unreal, truly spectacular, and it’s great to see all the finalists and winners here tonight.”

Speaking about the evening, Rob Jones, chair of Transport Benevolent Fund CIO (TBF), and presenter of the Station Staff Award, said “It's hugely important that industry staff are

recognised like this. The TBF is delighted to be able to support that and celebrate the hard work that everyone on the railway does, day in day out, to transport millions of people.”

TBF sponsored this year’s award. The organisation offers a wide range of benefits including health, legal advice, convalescence and cash help to its members and their dependants. It exists to relieve need, hardship and distress among those who work in the public transport industry (or are retired from it) and there to help when things are not going so well.

Highly commended

All frontline station staff that worked through covid, all TOC companies, and Network Rail Sheree Whetren, South Western Railway

Recruitment isn’t just about getting job roles filled. Building an inclusive organisation should be a key consideration in any recruitment strategy. Though much progress has been made, diversity remains a challenge in the rail industry, however Matt Foote is working hard to change all that and his efforts earned him the Recruitment & Talent Acquisition Person Year Award.

Matt has taken the concept of diversity and inclusion and implemented genuine change across his team. He's been prepared to look outside the normal recruitment pipeline, bringing people who are new to the railway into the role and investing in their training.

He recognises that successful teams and businesses are made up of a diverse range of employees, of all genders, ethnicities, cultures, and age, and is currently sponsoring a new local operations management apprenticeship scheme which will attract a varied audience.

On top of this, Matt is the model of a dedicated employee, wearing multiple hats and getting things done, along with leading, and supporting others in his team in a diverse range of interventions around positive recruitment and career development.

“Trying to attract, secure, retain, and appoint the best people, in any business or any organisation is an obvious thing to do,” says Matt. “That just makes sense. And in the long term you get a better organisation by having good people and a good variety of people.

“I’ve worked in organisations before where people say ‘yes’ to new approaches, but then not much happens. I'd rather have an organisation which includes a variety of opinions and different energies that will challenge me and tell me what they think. Because we have a balanced team, we know that once we agree on something, it will definitely happen.”

Highly commended

Madeleine Phillips, Mott MacDonald

Alstom Advance TRS, Alstom & Advance TRS

Heathrow airport. With a track record of innovation and industryleading customer service, learning and development is at the heart of how Heathrow Express operates.

Andy was praised for his extraordinary skills when it comes to blended learning, developing, and online web applications, and for spending much of his spare time helping those who need a hand. He does this for the love of supporting others and ensuring they are safe in the real world.

When delivering training, Andy takes an innovative approach,

injecting technology into his classes, such as electronic

commented: In the short time I have been at Freightliner, Andy has been friendly and more than approachable, willing to help and always has time for all staff. He has an extensive knowledge base and has always given me guidance throughout my training.”

Andy used his skills and his own time to create a digital platform based on operational rules for staff to use as a resource. He didn’t realise this would go viral

from word of mouth and spread across the UK’s train operating companies. Andy uses his spare time to study assessment results and intervenes when he sees potential risks – educating as needed. This helps rail personnel across the UK to stay safe and help to minimise incidents and accidents on the network.

On winning the award, Andy said: “I’m shellshocked! I’ve just always been passionate about making sure that everyone is safe on the railway. I want to say a big thank you to everyone that’s supported me. From the candidates to the drivers, and the managers to the directors. Thanks also to my wife. This has been a labour of love and has involved me working in my own time – she’s been very patient.”

Highly commended

Alan Godding, Greater Anglia Peter Woodbridge, Siemens

LOCKDOWN HEROES

The RailStaff Awards returned in 2022 after a two-year hiatus caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.

On its return, two new awards were introduced to honour those workers who had given their all to improve the lot

food, and friendly and approachable manner. Like many colleagues, Gavin was stood down in early 2020 when the Covid outbreak hit, but he was also among the first to sign up to the LNER Reserves - LNER’s network-work army of advice and support volunteers.

pandemic, and helped them to provide an estimated 11,372 meals across the North East of England. On top of that, his voluntary duties as a warehouse assistant helped ensure vital care packages could be provided by the charity to those most in need throughout lockdown and beyond.

Through his volunteering, Gavin has seen for himself how surplus food can unnecessarily go to waste. He is now working on two new initiatives with the charity to help reduce food waste and raise awareness.

Gavin has now returned to work but has remained an active member of the LNER Reserves and continues to volunteer at FareShare. His efforts throughout lockdown have benefitted the lives of thousands of people and

their families and earned him the greatest of respect from everyone whose lives he has touched.

To win this award means everything,” said Gavin, “but I just felt, during Covid, that I had to do something, I had to have a purpose. It’s been a tough few years for everybody, particularly in the rail industry, and events like these are fantastic for raising morale. I’d like to thank everyone who voted for me and also LNER for making me fall back in love with work.”

Highly commended

John

SANTA’S LITTLE HELPERS

The Covid Hero – Outstanding Team Award was taken home by a group of individuals who were determined to keep the magic of Christmas alive despite the restrictions and disruption wrought by the pandemic.

Each year the SNGX Santa Train team delivers a memorable experience for the children of colleagues. The usual live

Sidebotham, Network Rail Sharon Smith, McGinley

event format wasn’t possible in December 2020 due to Covid, but the team was determined to make sure that the children still got to see Santa Claus and have a magical experience. They set about creating an interactive virtual experience that would bring a smile to the children of the network.

They created a video in which children watching could play a part to help Santa get home. They also sent activity packs to the children’s homes, to make the interactive sessions more immersive. After completing the activities, the children also received a present from Santa.

The team spent many long hours to make this a reality and bought joy to the homes of hundreds of children at a particularly tough time.

“The amount of work put in by the whole team was unbelievable,” said team member David Mitchell from GTR, “and it meant so much to so many people. The feedback afterwards was tremendous.”

The Covid Hero awards were sponsored by Young

Rail Professionals (YRP), the networking organisation founded to promote the rail industry as a great place to work, inspire the next generation of railway talent, and develop young people to reach their potential.

“The Covid awards are important in recognising those individuals or teams who have shown true resilience, dedication, and initiative during the pandemic,” said Fiona Westcough, YRP’s Chair. “I was inspired by the range of activities, and often selfless approach, that all the nominees displayed. The event itself was fantastic and provided a great chance for rail staff across the industry to come together and celebrate the vital contribution of our unsung heroes. Many congratulations to Gavin Dicks and SNGX Santa Team for winning the Covid Hero Individual and Team awards!”

Highly commended Metro South Operations, Southern Rail Enforcement, Great Northern & Thameslink, GTR (Great Northern)

Committee Members

YRP is run by passionate volunteers, based across the country. Each region has its own committee that meets monthly. We also have a national executive committee providing support to all of our regions.

Corporate Members

Are you a company operating in the rail industry with a keeness to promote, inspire and develop the next generation of railway talent? If so, you could make a huge difference by joining us as a Corporate Member.

Join us

You could make a huge difference by joining YRP as either a Corporate Member or Committee Member. Add value to your business and career by joining today.

Contact: YRP National Chair Fi Westcough, Fiona.Westcough@ youngrailpro.com

The expert skills of good project managers are required more than ever to drive the major projects dominating today’s busy railway landscape. The RailStaff Awards took the opportunity to honour these focused, determined, and dedicated leaders.

This year, the Rail Project Manager of the Year Award was sponsored by GeoAccess. Established in 2014 to address the need for inspections on difficult access sites in the rail sector, the company works nationwide, covering a broad range of industries. GeoAccess takes pride in its ability to tackle every job no matter how big or small, with the same professional flexible approach, believing that anything is possible. The company’s mission is to be a

world class leader in the services it offers.

Ricky Barsby, now Business Change Lead at LNER, took this year’s award for his leadership of LNER’s East Coast Upgrade Team.

As the biggest railway upgrade programme in many years, The East Coast Upgrade has involved a number of full and partial closures of London King’s Cross, resulting in major changes to LNER services throughout the duration of the works. An enormous level of planning has been required to ensure services remain smooth and passengers continue to enjoy an excellent experience during the disruption.

As LNER’s Project Manager, Ricky developed a clear vision of the company’s approach to the project and worked closely with the project team to apply this to each of the blockades.

Ricky’s wealth of industry

knowledge and experience informed his plans for the duration of the works to date. His enthusiasm, dedication to consistently deliver, and a genuine care for his colleagues helped to motivate and inspire his project team.

Colleagues said: “The level of leadership and commitment that Ricky has displayed throughout the East Coast Upgrade so far has helped LNER to consistently deliver an amazing customer experience during the planned disruption and fully embed the East Coast Upgrade Project Team into the business. The engineering works will continue into 2021 and we have every confidence that we are in good hands with Ricky at the helm for the remainder of the project.”

Highly commended

Shelby Coates, Alstom Transport UK Ltd

Matt Horvai, South Rail Systems Alliance (AECOM)

ALWAYS ON HAND

Railway managers face a unique set of challenges as passenger loadings increase, freight volumes grow, and more

expanding capacity. Making it all happen is everyone’s responsibility, but the onus of meeting budgets and deadlines falls on their shoulders. It is a hard task, and the RailStaff Awards recognises these hardworking heroes.

The Rail Manager of the Year award was sponsored by D2 Rail, the programme management solutions provider for mainline and mass transit rail projects. D2 Rail is expert in delivering fully integrated project planning, from early-stage constructability advice and activity programming, to specialist railway access, capacity and timetable planning and stakeholder communication.

“The Rail Manager of the Year Award highlights the great work and achievements of those who have taken on very demanding leadership roles,” said David Diesbergen, the company’s CEO and founder.

“People who understand what the rail industry needs –where and when in terms of staff – add real value to the everincreasing portfolio of projects and organisations taking forward an expanded, better performing network.”

Southeastern Railway’s Lauren Heap was honoured with this year’s prize. Lauren was praised by colleagues for always leading by example, always being visible

during times of disruption, and for always backing her staff.

Lauren has gained the respect of all her staff since taking on the role as Station Manager. In this time, she has worked hard to help staff develop within their roles and expand their training and knowledge. In the early days of her role, she took the lead in managing the station team through Covid, putting the welfare of staff and passengers at the forefront. Lauren has been a true inspiration.

One of Lauren’s nominating colleagues commented: “Lauren supports colleagues up and down the line, encourages us to further our learning, and inspires us to do a great job. She has a genuine interest in our lives and always asks how our colleagues and their families are. She sets high standards by utilising the strengths of the team and helps colleagues to achieve goals.”

Highly commended

Zack Jenkin, Great Western Railway Michael Trippitt, Merseyrail

GETTING THE JOB DONE

The Rail Civils / Infrastructure Team Award recognises the achievements of those who work both directly and indirectly on Britain’s rail network – from track maintenance engineers who consistently get the job done safely, on time and to budget, to amazing programme managers who deserve a big thank you.

This year, The Whitecross Recovery Team from Rail Systems Alliance Scotland stood out from the competition. Following heavy rainfall and thunderstorms on 12 August across Central Scotland, local maintenance teams found that the Union Canal had been breached causing significant damage on the Edinburgh to Glasgow Main Line.

Network Rail sought support from various suppliers including

Rail Systems Alliance Scotland (RSAS), to remediate the track asset failures. RSAS quickly mobilised its development team to drive the project forward and manage the recovery.

The scale of the work in front of the team was incredible given the devastation of the track, but the programme was delivered despite the exceptional circumstances and time constraints. Most importantly, everyone came home with no accidents throughout this accelerated programme.

“It’s an absolute pleasure to receive this award,” said Christopher Booth from Babcock Rail. “Obviously, it was a joint effort and all teams reacted well to an emergency situation, which is what Rail Systems Alliance Scotland is set up to do.”

Bodyguard Workwear was proud to sponsor this year’s Rail Civils / Infrastructure Team

Award. With over 40 years’ experience in manufacturing and distributing PPE and safety workwear, Bodyguard Workwear combines an in depth understanding of safety clothing with expertise in garment design and manufacture.

“It’s great that the RailStaff Awards recognise the everyday working people of the railway,” said Kamal Basra, Bodyguard Workwear’s managing director. “Although many would say that they’re just doing their jobs, the work they do has a huge positive effect on their colleagues, their community, and society as a whole. It’s so important that the

that.

Since the very first days of the railway, engineers have provided the insight and expertise to drive the projects and systems on which the transport of millions depends. That’s why the Rail Engineer of the Year award is one of the RailStaff Awards’ most prized accolades.

The award this year was sponsored by engineering service provider Rhomberg Sersa Rail Group UK. Rhomberg Sersa UK is a full railway engineering service provider specialising in the design and construction of slab track solutions, track renewal and

maintenance, tunnels, stations, consultancy, planning, and design. Innovation is at the heart of Rhomberg UK’s business and it offers solutions to the most challenging projects – all the qualities of an excellent rail

At the 2022 awards, Chloe Thomas from Transport for Wales took the coveted prize. Chloe joined the railway back in 2015 as a fleet maintenance apprentice. Seven years later, she is a Fleet Support Engineer who has just completed her BSc Electrical and Electronic Engineering. Not only did she successfully juggle full time work and part time study, but she received a FirstClass Honours Degree. This year she was awarded the IET Prize for most outstanding student and was also presented with an additional award by the Dean of the University – the Certificate of Excellence for

University of South Wales.

Along with her many academic achievements, Chloe’s innovative work at Canton Depot has impressed colleagues. Here, she has successfully implemented new battery testing equipment that uses conductance testing to determine the health of the battery on the Class 150 Fleet. Her project will enhance the performance of the Class 150 batteries resulting in increased reliability of battery systems as this project will implement preventative maintenance into the exam regime.

“I’m really shocked and pleased to win this award,” said Chloe. “I’ve been working in rail for eight years, starting as an apprentice, and right now it’s a really exciting time for the industry. It’s been great to see so many faces from across the industry tonight, and there were some amazing people nominated.”

Highly commended

Nathan Sealy, Amey Consulting Jason Petersen & David Moss, Quattro Plant

HEALTH AND SAFETY ICONS

Safety on the railway should be a number one priority for everyone – rail workers and the public alike.

The RailStaff Awards champions those who strive to improve the safety record of their workplace, those with an enthusiasm to instil in others the importance of respecting the track and remaining aware of its dangers.

In the face of strong competition, this year’s winner of the Safety Person or Team Award was Travel Safe, Travel Smart (TSTS), from Southeastern Trains & Network Rail. The team, made up of Sanchez Virginie-Down, manager at TSTS, and Nicola Dooris, Network Rail Community Safety Manager Southeast Route, work in collaboration to manage Margate Station’s

railway education and learning centre. The aim of the centre is to prevent future trespass through education.

TSTS undertakes educational workshops for junior school children and youth clubs. Consequences, hazards, and electricity story boards are used to help visitors understand the impact of their behaviours. The centre boasts a real-life platform and railway which becomes a viewing area for conducting safety talks and showing safety videos. Outside is a designated area for visitors to take part in games that reinforce the railway safety message and help with their learning. Over 1,000 children visited the centre in 2022.

“We started a couple of years ago with the aim of educating children so that they do not come to harm on the railway,” said Nicola. “Just to be put forward for

this award means so much, and winning it is just unreal. We didn’t set out to win awards - it’s all about keeping children safe.”

McGinley Support Services supported the Safety Person or Team of the Year at this year’s Awards. As one of the UK’s largest specialist recruitment businesses, McGinley provides permanent, contract and temporary staff, at all levels across the rail and infrastructure industry. It builds and manages workforces all over the UK, finding jobs for workers, developing their skills and experience, and forging longterm relationships.

Highly commended

Hi 5 Safety Team, Freightliner Safety Task Force, Network Rail

HEALTHY AND HAPPY

Poor physical or mental health can impact lives even more than a workforce injury, and for this reason the RailStaff Awards celebrates staff who promote health and wellbeing in the workplace.

The Health & Wellbeing Award recognises those who have promoted great practices in this area with innovative and proactive activities and interventions and have enabled people to lead healthier and happier lives as a result.

The award was sponsored by CIRAS, the confidential safety reporting service for health, safety and wellbeing concerns raised by workers in the UK transport

industry. Since 1996, CIRAS has helped worried staff who feel they cannot use internal reporting channels, or have tried without success. The organisation raises concerns with the relevant company for resolution while protecting callers’ identities and keeping them in the loop about progress. This year’s winner, Samantha

becoming a GWR Wellbeing Champion a few years ago, supporting the depot with a listening ear and setting up tea and talk events.

Samantha volunteered to become a GWR Wellbeing Champion so she could better support the Cardiff depot throughout the Covid lockdown. Her focus included helping the team stay physically and mentally active, and she was directly responsible for keeping the team connected during the challenges of the pandemic. Samantha also realised that much more could be done beyond the depot and she focused on supporting people who were suffering from domestic violence. She engaged with Domestic Abuse Stops Here (DASH) a charity that was working in the Cardiff area trying to address the increases in domestic abuse cases created

by the pressures of lockdown.

Alongside her activity to support others directly, she also works to raise money for local charities, developing new relationships with local business and community groups. She has helped to make Cardiff Central a more positive place in less than positive times.

“I’m absolutely speechless,” said Samantha on winning the award. “There were so many outstanding candidates. The railway community is one huge family and I feel like all I’ve been doing is helping people who are close to me. To get this recognition is fabulous.”

commended

RAIL INDUSTRY ROYALTY

The Lifetime achievement award recognises those who’ve dedicated their lives to the railway, delivering excellence for the benefit of customers and colleagues alike.

It reflects the passion and commitment of those who’ve given countless hours manning trains, selling tickets, operating signals, building trains and track, and everything inbetween.

This year’s winner, Alan McLeish, is a true inspiration. The managing director of QTS Group, Alan started the business with a £300 loan in 1992, giving up his steady, full-time employment as a tree surgeon to pursue his business ambitions. Thirty years on, QTS employs over 600 people across the UK, boasting a turnover of more than £100 million annually.

Alan is also a powerhouse of philanthropy, personally contributing over £100,000 to charity over the years. He drives the charitable work displayed by QTS in local communities, ensuring that the success of our business benefits those who need it most. The contribution Alan has made to the rail industry, to his staff, and to the wider community is outstanding.

“I’m absolutely humbled to have won this award,” said Alan, “especially considering all the other candidates who are all so worthy of recognition. I’m delighted.

“The RailStaff Awards are so important. Everybody in the industry deserves to be recognised and to get the chance to let their hair down, especially after the past couple of years. Events like this are vital.”

Top communications technology company

Telent backed the Lifetime Achievement Award. Telent is a leading technology company and specialist in the design, build, support and management of the UK’s critical digital infrastructure, drawing on decades of experience in mission critical communications and technology. Telent enables organisations to create, improve, and operate the ICT and communication networks that their businesses and operations depend on.

“The rail industry is critically important to the UK as a key enabler of economic growth

overcome adversity in their jobs, in their lives, and in helping other people.

Matchtech & Resourcing Solutions once again sponsored the category at this year’s awards. The two companies joined forces in 2017 to become one of the largest rail recruiters in the UK. Its complementary offering ensures excellent coverage across both design and site works, with Matchtech focusing on professional services experts and Resourcing Solutions specialising in site-based project delivery talent. Understanding

is a great fit fit for the award.

Freightliner’s Amy ‘Bessie’ Matthews was 2022’s winner. Bessie joined Freightliner in August 2021 as a trainee shunt driver and impressed her colleagues immediately. While taking on a new role and all the extensive training that entails, she also jumped at the opportunity to participate in other activities including playing a role in the Freightliner female Train Driver’s forum.

Bessie also takes an active role in promoting career opportunities for women in rail, as well as supporting Samaritans and other rail-related charities. She was the Samaritan’s top fundraiser for Samarathon in 2021 and was a key ambassador for Samaritan’s Christmas Star campaign, featuring in all their campaign promotional material. She has also attracted a wide social media following through Twitter, helping promote and raise awareness of rail as a great career path for women.

“I’m absolutely blown away by this,” said Bessie. “It means more to me than I can explain. I can’t believe the amount of support I’ve received. I’d like to thank Karen Bennett of community Rail, who’s been an absolute rock, Mike Roberts, railway chaplain, and Heather Ward from Freightliner - three incredible people.

“The rail community has needed an event like this for so long. There’s a real buzz in the room, not just because we’re supporting so many people, but because the whole industry is represented here together. The atmosphere is amazing.”

Highly commended Sarah Bennett, Great Western Railway Rebecca Vandyke, GTR

DEDICATED TO DIVERSITY

Diversity is always in the spotlight, and rightly so. The rail industry, like all others, is still getting to grips with including and representing the wide gamut of cultures, ethnicities, genders, sexualities, and abilities in today’s society. This pioneering work is being carried out by some very special individuals, and the RailStaff Awards recognises their vital efforts.

The specialists who look after diversity and inclusion tend to work for HR – human resources. So, the three areas are rightly combined in this award. This year, Network Rail’s Sharon Salmon stood out from the competition and was rightly rewarded with the HR, Diversity & Inclusion Award.

Sharon’s work leading Network Rail’s Cultural Fusion employee network (CFN) has made massive improvements throughout the organisation. CFN is Network Rail’s Black, Asian, and minority ethnic (BAME) employee network aimed at recognising the benefits of a diverse workforce.

Sharon’s inspiring and engaging leadership has built the credibility of the network and its reputation, increasing membership to over 1,000 members.

But her work doesn’t stop there. Sharon is part of the Race Matters Strategy group for Network Rail, and also supports the business to develop and build platforms that promote diversity such as the Black Futures Leaders Programme. She has also coached women in interview technique to help them gain promotion within the railway.

“I’m absolutely ecstatic and overwhelmed,” said Sharon

the award. “I didn’t expect this at all. It’s been a long journey, but I’ve been driven my own passion and what I believe in. It’s great to see the strides that Network Rail has made, and the influences we have on the wider industry. I am incredibly grateful to the people who have been part of my journey to achieving this prestigious award, of which there are too many to thank here.

Pentalver. Attracting to G&W UK/Europe Region companies is an ongoing priority for the group. With a stronger focus on diversity and inclusion in the last few years, they are reaping the benefits, especially with the recruitment of females into frontline operational roles, including train and truck drivers.

Highly commended Shane Andrews MBE,

RAILSTAFF AWARDS 2022 THE FINALISTS

It was another record-breaking year at RailStaff Awards HQ. From contractors to customer service assistants, train drivers to training managers, the full breadth and depth of job roles were represented in the submissions for the 23 awards categories.

With the voting stage over, the shortlists for each award were revealed. Judges had the difficult task of whittling hundreds of hopefuls into dozens as the final preparations were put in place for the big event. Here are the names of each of those who made it through as finalists.

APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR

• Bob Bryce - Govia Thameslink Railway Limited

• Amaan Shaban - SYSTRA Ltd

• William Horne- Telent

• Izzabella Emmins - MTR

• Stephen Snow - South Western Railway

• Chloe Farrell - Merseyrail

• Charlie Johnson - Inspire (Structures) Ltd

• Kate Rogers - Avanti West Coast

• Nicholas Bignell - Amey

• James Mather - Freightliner

• Esperanza Torres Jimenez - Amey Consulting

• Kai Stratton-Taylor - AECOM

• Daniel Arthur - Avanti West Coast

• Marnie McKay - Atkins

• Thomas Gubb - McGinley

AWARD FOR CHARITY

• Rail Enforcement Team, Great Northern Lily’s Rainbow - Govia Thameslink Railway

• Sheree Whetren - South Western Railway

• Hatch End Station - Arriva Rail London

• Charles Dickson - Southern

• Susan Temple - ScotRail

• Nicola Dawson - ScotRail

• Karen Pryer - Avanti West Coast

• Sam Jennings - Advance TRS Ltd.

• David Fawcett - Amey

• Network Rail and Inspire EngineersNetwork Rail / Inspire

• Martin Green - Avanti West Coast

• Neil Lathom - Freightliner

• Brian Hopkinson - McGinley

• Sharon Smith - McGinley

• James’ Place Virtual Challenge TeamMerseyrail

COVID

HERO - OUTSTANDING INDIVIDUAL AWARD

• Susan Wren - Central Rail Systems Alliance (CRSA)

• Sophia Davies - Great Western Railway

• Evrad Kameugne Kounchou - Aid Disinfection Services Ltd

• Ashleigh McIlroy - Translink - NI Railways

• Sheree Whetren - South Western Railway

• John Sidebotham - Network Rail

• Lisa Brown - Avanti West Coast

• Gavin Dicks - LNER

• Harry Levey - Network Rail

• Zoe Shaw - Avanti West Coast

• Julie Watson - MTR Elizabeth line

• Roger Johnson - Lundy Projects Limited

• Charles Dickson - Southern railway

• Sharon Smith - McGinley

• John Webster – Carlisle

• Runcorn Station - Avanti West Coast

• Samaritans Rail Training Team - Samaritans

• Claire Lillie - Transport for Wales

• Marketing Team - Southern Rail & Gatwick Express

• GTR – Train Presentation Teams - Govia Thameslink Railway Ltd

• SNGX Santa Train – Southern Rail & Gatwick Express

• McGinley & Network Rail High Output TRS & Stressing Teams – McGinley

CUSTOMER SERVICE AWARD

• Sheree Whetren - South Western Railway

• Angela Milton - Greater Anglia

• Charles Dickson - Southern

• Clare Harding - G&W FreightLiner

• Diana Schiparieff - Govia Thameslink Railway

• Deborah Hubner - Network Rail

• Christophe Bourgeois - Crosscountry Trains

COVID

HEROES - OUTSTANDING TEAM AWARD

• Rail Enforcement, Great Northern & Thameslink - GTR (Great Northern)

• Virtual Cake Sale - Great Western Railway

• Service Quality Team - Northern Trains Limited

• Norwich Greenwich Trains ManagersLondon Underground Ltd

• Hospital Heroes - ScotRail

• George & Team Stourbridge Junction - West Midland Trains

• Bournemouth Cross Country Team - Cross Country Trains.

• Metro South Operations - Southern

• Mersyrail Health & Safety RepresentativesMerseyrail

• Charlene Pearson - MTR Elizabeth line

• Daniela Nardi - Thameslink (GTR)

• Joana Amoh - Carlisle Support Services

• Kate Townsend - Chiltern Railways

• Asif Ismail - Chiltern Railways

• Joan Bennett-Durkin - Merseyrail

• Oliver Clarke - Northern Trains Ltd

• Sayid Mohammed - C2C trenitalia

DEPOT STAFF AWARD

• Jonathan Louis - Southern Railway

• Martin Ling - Freightliner Maintenance

• Emma Knowles - MTREL

• Thomas Fagan - Merseyrail

• Jason Steel - Scotrail

• Steven Deane - GTR

• Robert Lloyd - Freightliner Maintenance Limited

• Keith Sheppard - Merseyrail Electrics

• Shane Hill - Freightliner

• Carl Channell - GTR

• Jake Harwood, Duane Fryer - Northern

• Marianna Busuttil - GTR Southern

• Abbie Wood - Network Rail

• Logistics Team Manchester - Network Rail

DIGITAL RAILWAY (S&T) PERSON OR TEAM AWARD

• Alasdair Bathie - AECOM

• Matthew Teller - Govia Thameslink Railway

• David Moore - Network Rail

• Oliver Turner - GTR

• Callum Stopforth - Alstom

• Oliver Turner - Govia Thameslink Railway

• Telent Public Wi-Fi Installation Delivery Team - Telent

• Marnie McKay - Atkins

• Intellignet Infrastructure - Signalling TeamNetwork Rail

• Jonathan Billington - Alstom Transport UK Ltd

• Graham Hill - Alstom Transport UK Ltd

• Nathan Wilson - Alstom

• Product Systems Engineering - Alstom UK Ltd

• Safety Task Force - Network Rail

GRADUATE OR NEWCOMER AWARD

• Peter Jackson - Arriva Rail London

• Louis Szymanski - D2 Rail

• Alison Clark-Dick - Network Rail

• Daisy Daymond - Network Rail

• Nick Coman - Telent Technology Services

• Bingru Liu - Atkins

• Nina Tamarra - AECOM

• Madeleine Coyle - Network Rail

• Rebecca Collins - Network Rail

• Eleasha Kell - AECOM

• Akin Adegbenro - Siemens Mobility UK

• Petra Holeckova - KONUX

• Adam Dennis - Lundy Projects Limited

• Lucy Govey - McGinley

• Scott McCloud - MTR Elizabeth line

HEALTH & WELLBEING AWARD

• Sheree Whetren - South Western Railway

• Caitriona O’Brien - Network Rail

• Nicola Evans - South Western Railway

• Linda Cray - Network Rail

• Jo Boocock - Network Rail

• Milena Swieboda - Arriva Rail London

• Nicola Dawson - ScotRail

• Alex Keeler - Amey

• Heather Waugh - Freightliner

• Lucy Cashin - Network Rail

• Samantha Winfield - Great Western Railway

• Simone Carter - West Midlands Trains

• Marianna Busuttil - GTR Southern

• Tim McCarthy - GTR

• Marlon Brooks – Southern

HR, DIVERSITY & INCLUSION PERSON OR TEAM AWARD

• North West and Central Resourcing TeamNetwork Rail

• Diversity and Inclusion Team Network Rail D&I Team - Network Rail

• Capability and Development Team Organisational Capability - Network Rail

• Shane Andrews MBE - Network Rail

• David Johnston - Avanti West Coast

• Sharon Salmon - Network Rail

• Sue Thorpe - LNER

• Lucy Cashin - Network Rail

• James Dobson - Avanti West Coast

• India Chaplin - Network Rail

• Ian Puckrin - Network Rail

• EDI Charter Working Group Team - EDI Charter Working Group

• Sonia Hazel - Network Rail

• Paul McGunnigle – White - Trenitalia c2c Ltd

• Ciara Thorn - Network Rail

LEARNING & DEVELOPMENT AWARD

• Laura Young - Greater Anglia

• Carlos Maldonado - Heathrow Airport Ltd

• Adrian Libberton-Rowe - London Underground

• Keith Musgrove - Network Rail

• Andy Hill - Freightliner

• Alan Godding - Greater Anglia

• Tracy Donohue - GTR

• Matthew Burgess - GTR

• Amanda Hopkins - CrossCountry

• Mark Kirton - GTR

• Daniel Dale - Merseyrail

• Daniel Grice-Lloyd - Network Rail

• Ryan Thompson - Inspire Structures LTD

• Peter Woodbridge - Siemens

• Holly Hardy-Johnson - Avanti West Coast

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

• Andy Nwich-Holdsworth - Network Rail

• Ralph Cooper - Thameslink

• Thomas Michalek - Avanti West Coast

• Kirti Sidpura - Avanti West Coast

• Maureen Davidson - Scotrail

• Allan Lewis - Network Rail

• Graham Marris - Inspire (Structures) Ltd

• Gordon Burns - Avanti West Coast

• Steve Tollerton - Samaritans

• Peter McLaughlin - Avanti West Coast

• Alan Atkins - CRSA

• Vicki Beadle - Network Rail

• Roger Phelps - Dean Forest Railway

• David Godley - Network Rail (retired)

• Alan McLeish - QTS Group

MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS TEAM AWARD

• AB2K - AB2K

• Digital, Social Media and Film - Network Rail

• David Ross - ScotRail

• ScotRail Communications Team - ScotRail

• TfW Rail Comms Team - Transport for Wales

• Transport for Wales Brand Team - Transport for Wales

• The Making of Miles - EMR

• Rail Forum - Rail Forum

• Ricardo Rail Marketing Team - Ricardo Rail

• Lynn Crump - Genesee & Wyoming Uk (Freightliner)

• QTS Marketing Group - QTS Group Ltd

• Northern Marketing and Communications Teams - Northern

• Aintree Grand National Team 22 - Merseyrail

• Alison Clark-Dick - Network Rail

RAIL CIVILS / INFRASTRUCTURE TEAM AWARD

• Wales Earthworks ExaminationsGeoAccess working in collaboration with NR Wales Geotech Team

• Intelligent Infrastrcuture Civils TeamNetwork Rail

• TRU – Lineside Civil Design Team (Derby)Amey Consulting

• Rail Consulting South - Amey Consulting

• Lundy Projects WCML Project Delivery Team - Lundy Projects Limited

• Whitecrss Recovery Team - Rail Systems Alliance Scotland

• Lundy Projects TRU Delivery Team - Lundy Projects Limited

• AECOM Mining Legacy Team - AECOM

• Works Delivery Track ScotlandNetwork Rail

RAIL ENGINEER OF THE YEAR

• Shaziya Patel - NR - Network Rail

• Alasdair Bathie - AECOM

• Omar Al-Haffar - Amey

• Ben Cleary - Amey Consulting

• Nathan Sealy - Amey Consulting

• David Payne - MTREL

• Nick Schofield - Freightliner

• Jason David Petersen Moss - Quattro Plant

• Olaia Sanz Borika - Amey Consulting

• Mark Pellatt - Freightliner

• Nick Rook - Alstom Transport UK Ltd

• Phil Corns - Alstom Transport UK Ltd

• Nathan Wilson - Alstom

• Loren Swatton - Trenitalia c2c

• Chloe Thomas - Transport for Wales

RAIL MANAGER OF THE YEAR

• Jaimie Butel-Foley - Coyle Rail

• Dave Stamper - Merseyrail

• Laura McLaughlin - Northern

• Jonathan Kirby - Greater Anglia

• Abdul Rehman Savant - Systra Ltd

• Sujeet Chandra - AECOM

• Lauren Heap - Southeastern Railway

• Zack Jenkin - Great Western Railway

• Michael Trippitt - Merseyrail

• Drew Burbidge - ScotRail

• Alex Hornby - Network Rail

• Melanie Byrett - West Midlands Trains

• Simone Carter - West Midlands Trains

• John Harris - MTR Elizabeth Line

• Nathan Sobers - Chiltern Railways

RAIL PERSON OF THE YEAR

• Sheen Mathew - Merseyrail

• Rebecca Vandyke - Govia Thameslink Railway

• James Edwards - Govia Thameslink Railway

• Jonathan Callis - Network Rail

• Amy Bessie Matthews - Freightliner

• Richard Bark - Govia Thameslink Railway

• Phil Lees - CrossCountry Trains

• Robert Agnew - McCulloch Group

• Sarah Bennett - Great Western Railway

• David Ross - ScotRail

• Laura Latham - Merseyrail

• Jake Whiteman - CrossCountry Trains Ltd

• Mark Reach - Avanti West Coast

• Jayne Rodger - Network Rail

RAIL PROJECT MANAGER AWARD

• Alex Richardson - Central Rail Systems Alliance (CRSA)

• Ricky Barsby - LNER

• Stuart Broom - Govia Thameslink Railway

• Matt Horvai - South Rail Systems Alliance (AECOM)

• David Stinton - AECOM

• Tara Scott-Browne - AECOM

• Michael Currie - Network Rail

• Shagufta Hussain - WSP

• Paul Breese - MTR Elizabeth line

• Oliver Turner - Govia Thameslink Railway

• Rachel Haden - telent

• Matthew Jones - Amey Consulting

• Paul McJennett - Network Rail

• Shelby Coates - Alstom Transport UK Ltd

• Debbie Osborne - Chiltern Railways

RAIL TEAM OF THE YEAR

• Kilsby Delivery Team - Central Rail Systems Alliance (CRSA)

• Renewals Team - Central Rail Systems Alliance (CRSA)

• Bristol East Junction Renewal - Southern Rail Systems Alliance (SRSA)

• UK Rail for Ukraine - Network Rail

• Southeastern Passenger Services and Train Crew Rosters - Southeastern

• TFWRL Resources - Transport for Wales Rail Limited

• Dartmoor (Okehamptone) Project TeamGreat Western Railway / Network Rail

• Carlisle East Supervisoring Team - Carlisle Support Services

• Train Planning, Train Service Delivery, Resourcing & Rosters - Great Western Railway

• Rail Rehabilitation Team - City & Guilds

• Johnston Station Staff - ScotRail

• Wolverhampton Customer Experience Team - West Midland Trains

• McGinley & Network Rail High Output TRS & Stressing Teams - McGinley

• Aintree Grand National Team 22 - Merseyrail

• Community Champs at Manchester and Stockport - Avanti West Coast

RECRUITMENT & TALENT ACQUISITION PERSON OR TEAM OF THE YEAR

• Chloe Singleton - Arriva Group

• James Ayres - Construkt RS

• Kenny Burton - Resourcing Solutions

• Madeleine Phillips - Mott MacDonald

• Russell James - D2 Rail

• Wales & Western Resourcing TeamNetwork Rail

• Thomas Gubb - McGinley

• Alstom Advance TRS - Alstom & Advance TRS

• Northern Recruitment Team - Northern Trains Ltd

• Michelle Burningham - Trenitalia c2c Limited

• Emily Haggard & Chloe BertenshawNetwork Rail

• Matthew Foote - Network Rail

SAFETY PERSON OR TEAM AWARD

• Cultural Fusion Teabreaks - Network Rail

• Safety Task Force - Network Rail

• Marie Chisholm - Avanti West Coast

• Bessie Matthews - Freightliner

• Harrison Jones - AECOM

• Sultana Pasha - MTR Elizabeth line

• Ryan Robinson - Lundy Projects Limited

• Work at Height Collaboration NR, W&W, Taziker, & Pasma - Network Rail

• Works Delivery Trach Scotland - Network Rail

• Hi 5 Safety Team - Freightliner

• Daron Flegg - Telent

• Jane Hepburn - Vital Human Resources Ltd

• Security Team - Merseyrail

• Travel Safe, Travel Smart - SouthEastern Trains & Network Rail

• Nathalie Morgan - Great Western Railway

SAMARITANS LIFESAVER AWARD

• Agnes Oiaiya - Carlisle Support Services

• Arran Eccleston - Carlisle Support Services

• Sue Bateman - West Midlands Trains

• Dale Lowe - GWR

• Shane Davis - Network Rail

• Marrily Runoona-Rutsito - Network Rail

• Kay Bonner - LNER

• Richard Baker - MTR Elizabeth line

• Joel Jackson - Vital

• Morgen Chabata - Vital Human Resourcs

• Margaret Sexton - West Midlands Trains

• Keren Chambers - West Midlands Trains

• Amir Aziz - GTR

• Andrew Cook - GTR

• Jay Lee Jordan Woodhouse - Avanti West Coast STATION

STAFF AWARD

• Samantha Lavender- West Midland Trains

• Sheree Whetren - South Western Railway

• All frontline station staff that worked through covid - All TOC companies & Network Rail

• Chandra Nama - MTR Elizabeth Line

• Rebecca Shaw - Avanti West Coast

• Marie Bowie - Avanti West Coast

• Iola Kholer - Transport For Wales

• Andrew R Clare - Avanti West Coast

• Alex Lucas - Greater Anglia

• Rav Dharmendrakmar - Mtr

• Paul Gregg - Govia Thameslink Railway

• Tony Baker - c2c/trenitalia

• Lorna Bathgate - ScotRail

• Alex Brooks - Southern rail

• Jonathan Morris - GTR, Great Northern

MORE THAN AN AWARD

Thank you to all those that made the 2022 RailSta Awards so special! You can be part of this amazing event in 2023. Contact the Rail Media team to enquire about sponsorship opportunities on 01530 816 444. Photos & Videos now live on www.railsta awards.com

YOUNG RAIL PROFESSIONALS RAIL WEEK 2022

YRP Chair Fiona Westcough talks about the success of this year’s Rail Week event

On 3-9 October, Young Rail Professionals (YRP) held the first in-person Rail Week since 2019. Rail Week is a dedicated week of activity which aims to address the skills shortage in rail-related roles and inspire a generation of young people through a series of events, visits, and talks. This year’s campaign saw a broad spectrum of events taking place across England and Wales and here we highlight some of the key activities from each of our fantastic regional committees.

WALES AND MIDLANDS

Our Wales committee was present at Ffestiniog Railway’s ‘Bygones Weekend’, which aimed to celebrate and enjoy the locomotives, carriages, and waggons that played their part in shaping the story of our historic railway. Located at Porthmadog Harbour Station, and led by our regional Chair, Annabelle Church, YRP volunteers were available to answer questions on careers in the rail industry. Heritage railways provide a great opportunity to spark the emotional fascination with rail as well as the technical aspects involved in running a railway.

The West Midlands region, led by Veena Kumari, held a fantastic careers event at Coventry University, allowing a variety of students and early careers individuals to come along and ask questions about roles in the industry, as well as training and courses available. The main aim of the event was to inspire undergraduates and high school students, showing them the wide variety of pathways into rail. Furthermore, West Midlands provided the opportunity for 12 lucky individuals to attend a tour of the Tyseley depot, which began railway maintenance operations over 100 years ago in 1908.

Our East Midlands region, led by Simone Dellistanti, hosted a depot tour at Alstom’s Litchurch Lane, which covered the production stages for the Aventra platform products, the Monorail products, as well as some brief talks about HS2, the Hydrogen project, and the future of the plant which dates back to the 1830s. Furthermore, Tom Flannery, Practice Manager of Rolling Stock Technical Services at SNC-Lavalin Atkins, provided a fascinating presentation on decarbonisation in the rail industry.

LONDON AND SOUTH EAST

In London and the South East, led by Edmund Fenton-Fowler, we saw the return of Rail Weeks’ headline event named ‘Politics in Rail’, where leading figures in the industry discussed subjects about the current and future health of the industry. We welcomed fantastic panellists inluding Andrew Haines OBE, Nick Kingsley, Christine Quigley, Steve White, chaired by Gareth Dennis. It was a session that absolutely flew by and had it not been for the need to vacate RIA’s offices, the conversation would have continued for hours!

YRP also held many hybrid and online events, discussing topics such as ETCS, data monitoring and AI in maintenance. This allowed for those who might not be able to attend in-person to still benefit and meant we weren’t restricted by room sizes for an ‘in-person event’ – one of the major benefits of the hybrid approach we were able to take post-covid. Over the weekend, YRP also set up stalls within major stations across regions to speak to the passing public about the variety of careers in rail.

Fiona Westcough.

Bringing together such a fantastic programme of events is no easy feat. At this point I’d like to thank our regional volunteers, without whom Rail Week would cease to happen. Furthermore, a momentous effort from our Rail Week lead, James Shanley, and YRP Director and Rail Week Sponsor, Bonnie Price, who coordinated strategy, planning and wider industry support for the campaign.

THANK YOU

This year certainly presented a number of particular challenges as it’s the first time we’ve tried to deliver such a volume of in-person events since the outbreak of the pandemic. Additionally, the equally unfortunate timing of rail strikes affecting our ability to deliver events, and the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, limited our active promotion through September added to the list of challenges.

I would like to thank our corporate sponsors who helped facilitate many of the in-person events or offering speakers – it is really appreciated and goes a long way to helping keep these initiatives as accessible as possible from a financial perspective.

Next year, we aim to make Rail Week even bigger and better, engaging a wider audience and inspiring the next generation of railway professionals. Should you or your organisation wish to support us in our mission, please feel free to get in touch!

Committee Members

YRP is run by passionate volunteers, based across the country. Each region has its own committee that meets monthly. We also have a national executive committee providing support to all of our regions.

Corporate Members

Are you a company operating in the rail industry with a keeness to promote, inspire and develop the next generation of railway talent? If so, you could make a huge difference by joining us as a Corporate Member.

Join us

You could make a huge difference by joining YRP as either a Corporate Member or Committee Member. Add value to your business and career by joining today.

Contact: YRP National Chair Fi Westcough, Fiona.Westcough@ youngrailpro.com

Muldoon joins Systra

To support SYSTRA’s strategy of sustainable growth in the UK & Ireland, Mike Muldoon joins the business to strengthen the focus on future business development and strategy.

Mike Muldoon has joined Systra Ltd as business development director for the UK & Ireland and as a member of the Executive Board. He brings over 30 years of transport industry experience serving clients and customers around the world.

Mike began his career in rail rolling stock before moving into project delivery. In 2010 he joined Alstom UK & Ireland as tenders director before becoming head of business development in 2017. Latterly he has led Alstom’s UK focus on the development, promotion and application of emerging decarbonisation technologies and the resulting closer integration of the transport and energy sectors.

Systra CEO Nick Salt said: “We are absolutely delighted

to welcome Mike to our Executive Board for UK and Ireland, he brings a wealth of experience driving growth in new and emerging sectors. Systra has developed a strong position in the UK & Ireland, growing our core consultancy and engineering capability to respond to the needs of the transportation and infrastructure markets.”

On joining Systra, Mike said: “I am delighted to be joining Systra at such a pivotal time in the development of transport and infrastructure in the UK and Ireland. Behaviours and needs across the region are changing and the sectors we serve must evolve and grow to facilitate this change.

“If people are to have the freedom and opportunity to travel sustainably and affordably in the future, we must apply the strength and diversity of Systra in both our existing areas of proven success and along new and exciting paths.”

Rail Europe appoints new president & CEO

Rail Europe has appointed Björn Bender as president and CEO. Björn, a mobility expert with 20 years’ experience in the sector, will be bringing his rail expertise, customer centricity and spirit of innovation to the company. Before joining Rail Europe, Björn was Head of Innovation, Research and Incubation at SBB, prior to which he led the company’s business unit New Mobility Services.

Before joining SBB, Björn held several positions at DB in Germany, Italy, and Austria. After spending six years as international sales director for Eastern Europe and later Southern Europe, he was VP Sales & Partner Manager for New Mobility from 2015 to 2019. “I am very excited to be joining Rail Europe’s teams,” said Björn. I’ll be making it my personal mission to make European trains more accessible, while facilitating

European train digital distribution. The mobility transition and the so-called ‘revenge’ travel period that we are witnessing today holds many opportunities for Rail Europe as a well-known brand with a 90year history.

“As people become increasingly aware of climate change, Rail Europe’s positioning will secure the company’s future as a major player with strong, long-term partners. I’m also happy to announce that we will now be offering our B2B solutions to travel agencies, tour operators and Online Travel Agencies all over Europe.”

Carlisle welcomes director of rail strategy

Carlisle Support Services has appointed Steve Cere as director of rail strategy.

Carlisle is currently in contractual relationships with 13 of the UK Train Operating Companies and employs over 2,000 employees to support the country’s critical national infrastructure. Its involvement in the sector is varied and key to its operating success, with duties ranging from Train Dispatch to Revenue Protection / Security, to Cleaning and wider Facilities Support Services.

Paul Evans, chief executive officer for Carlisle Support Services said: “We eagerly await the introduction of Great British Railways who will oversee the strategic direction of the industry. Working alongside Train

Operating Companies, Network Rail and the Department for Transport, it is clear that there will be a need for all parties to collaborate and move forwards in the achievement of common goals that add value to all involved, none more so than the UK rail passengers.”

In support of these changes, Steve has been appointed to play an active part in moulding the industry operating landscape. The role will oversee the continuous development of solutions Carlisle currently provides the industry, ensuring they empower the sector to grow efficiently at the desired speed.

Steve has worked in the Rail sector for over 20 years, having previously worked for Virgin Trains within their Station Management community, before

joining Carlisle as contract manager for its TransPennine Express Cleaning contact, then moving on to lead the company’s successful Revenue Protection and Security contracts with Northern Trains. Immediately prior to this appointment, Steve was the managing director for its North division, where his teams oversaw services on behalf of several other TOCs.

On his appointment, Steve said: “Rail is an industry people come to love very quickly and I am certainly no different having spent most of my working life within the sector. As we look ahead, I believe Carlisle is well placed to develop its current offering and I am excited to be given the opportunity to play a part in shaping this. A key element of this will be through

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the provision of customer focused, people-based services which continually evolve through innovation and new technology in step with the modernisation of rail in the United Kingdom.”

New directors appointed at TfN

Transport for the North (TfN) has announced two new directors to lead the organisation going forward.

Following agreement from the TfN Board, finance director, Paul Kelly will formally take up his role on 14 December and strategy, policy, and communications director, Katie Day should be in place by February 2023.

Both will bring vast experience and depth of knowledge to TfN, helping guide the organisation on delivering its current remit and its journey to a regional centre of excellence.

Paul, who is the interim finance director at TfN, has over 25 years’ experience in commercial, financial and operational services within public and private entities subject to transformational change. He joined the organisation in 2018 from Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM), where he was head of financial and commercial for Metrolink.

Katie has over 20 years of working in public bodies and central government, including the Department of Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) as head of operations for the

Regional Growth Fund and, previously at the Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) leading Internal Communications and working on Strategic Policy. She joins TfN from the Office for Nuclear Regulation, where she is the director of policy and communications.

Lord McLoughlin, Chair of Transport for the North, said: “These are crucial leadership roles for the North of England, and I am more than confident that they will rise to the challenge. Both of them have extensive professional experience coupled with the drive to move TfN forward at a challenging time for our region and the transport sector.”

Responding to the decision, Katie Day said: “I am delighted to be joining TfN, and I am looking forward to leading our work on the refresh of the Strategic Transport Plan and the Northern Independent Economic Review. It’s vital more than ever that we build a fresh evidence base to make the case for greater investment in the North.”

Paul Kelly said: “It is an honour to be appointed to this position and to have the opportunity to support Transport for the North as it transitions to a new structure and further embeds its role for the North.”

Martine joins 3Squared

Greater Anglia has appointed a new finance director to oversee the company’s finance, IT and procurement functions.

Michael Robertson joins Greater Anglia from Abellio Group where he was group financial controller.

Michael brings a wealth of experience to the role, having joined Scotrail as head of finance in 2017 after spending several years working for Grant Thornton UK in both London and Scotland.

Greater Anglia’s managing director, Jamie Burles, said, “I’d like to welcome Michael to the team and look forward to the benefit of his expertise, which will help guide the business in improving efficiency and performance going forward.”

Rail software and solutions specialist 3Squared is pleased to announce the appointment of Martine DodwellBennett in the role of divisional director.

Martine brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise from across the technology space to 3Squared. Her role will be to enhance current processes and enable the business to make change happen and drive innovation across the rail industry.

Prior to joining 3Squared, Martine was senior business consultant at AXA UK, director of sales channel operations at Lutron Electronics and sales and marketing director at Steljes Ltd.

Passionate about understanding the customer journey, throughout her career Martine has provided a wealth of business propositions, underpinned with operational excellence and support, and has built rewarding team environments, across UK SMEs, newly listed companies, and global world leaders with over 150,000 employees world-wide.

In the role of divisional director, Martine will be focused on taking the time to listen to the organisation’s customers and build their capabilities further to address their growing and evolving needs. Martine will also be developing the team at 3Squared, engaging with new talent, and nurturing existing talent within the business.

Commenting on her appointment, Martine said: “I am excited to learn more about the challenges within the rail sector and how we can help those working within the industry to achieve their goals and make a difference. Putting the customer at the centre and anticipating and meeting their needs is at the heart of this.”

Georgia goes to Greater Anglia

Greater Anglia has appointed Georgia Payne as its new safeguarding and trespass prevention manager.

Georgia joined the train operator from British Transport Police, where she worked as a vulnerability researcher. The newly created role will focus on prioritising safeguarding of vulnerable individuals who travel on the network and work towards accreditation for the Safeguarding on Rail Scheme.

Georgia Payne said: “I’m really pleased to join the railway. My previous role gave an overview of vulnerability across the UK, and I am now able to focus on a specific area.

“Working closely with partners including Network Rail, charities and the emergency services, we want to make sure everyone uses the railway as safely as possible and signpost anyone to access any help they may need.”

“Vulnerable individuals are unable to take care of or protect themselves from harm or exploitation due to their situation or circumstances.

“An individual could be vulnerable for a variety of reasons, they could be missing from home, fleeing from domestic abuse or struggling with their mental health. It is crucial that we can spot the signs and know how to respond to those who need help and support.”

Matt Wakefield, Head of Safety, Security and Sustainability, Greater Anglia, said: “We’re very pleased to welcome Georgia. We are committed to making train travel and station environments as safe as possible and Georgia’s valuable experience is very much welcomed to help us work to ensure that we protect vulnerable children and adults when using the rail network.”

Michael Robertson joins Greater Anglia as finance director

Together

Signalling a career in Western Australia

Signaller / Network Controller Career Opportunities

About Arc Infrastructure

Arc Infrastructure manages and develops transport infrastructure assets that support growth and create jobs in Western Australia (WA). Rail is at the heart of our business, and the 5,500km rail network is the backbone of freight transport in Western Australia. Spanning a region around the same area as continental Europe, from the Midwest across to the Goldfields, and through to the stunning South West and Great Southern.We’re committed to working with industry, our customers, partners and communities to find new opportunities that will support and strengthen our rail network for the benefit of WA.

The Opportunity

Arc Infrastructure’s network control team is critical to our business, and responsible for the safe, economical, and effective monitoring and control of train services across our entire rail network.

We currently have opportunities for experienced Signallers / Network Controllers to join our team and make a difference on our network.

About you

The successful applicant will be an experienced Signaller/Network Controller who remains calm under pressure, is motivated, and is an excellent communicator.

You will be provided with in-house theoretical and on the job training. From our Perth-based network control centres, our experienced network controllers will work with you to help you adapt your skills and experience to our network. You will be working 12-hour shifts on a rolling roster over an average 38 hour working week.

Careers at Arc Infrastructure

Arc Infrastructure has created a culture of team work where diverse skills, ideas, and experience are valued. We promote a work environment that is characterised by personal accountability, mutual trust, and respect. At Arc, we take a genuine interest in our employees and their development. We understand our employees are the key to our success and, as a team, our focus is to ensure they feel safe, valued and fulfilled in the work that they do.

We will provide the successful applicant with a competitive remuneration package starting at $99,000 base salary, plus annual shift allowance of $27,663, plus employer superannuation contributions of 10.5%. In addition, we offer a benefits package including Visa sponsorship and relocation assistance.

ARC’S RECRUITMENT PROCESS

Arc Infrastructure will be in the UK as part of our recruitment drive in early 2023, please scan the QR code to apply.

www.arcinfra.com