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​Derby and Railway 200: Celebrating 200 Years of Rail Heritage​Derby Britain’s Railway CapitalAs Britain celebrates Railway 200 marking two centuries since the dawn of passenger rail few places can match Derby’s deep connection to the story of Britain’s railways.This city has been at the centre of the industry for almost its entire history. From the very first steam locomotives to the latest generation of trains Derby has been where the UK’s railway workforce has been trained where designs have been perfected and where entire fleets have rolled into service.​A City Built on RailDerby’s rise as a railway powerhouse began in the 1840s when it became the headquarters of the Midland Railway. This brought investment skills and innovation to the city and the creation of the Derby Works a site that would go on to produce some of Britain’s most famous locomotives.In 1876 the Carriage and Wagon Works opened at Litchurch Lane a facility that remains in operation today and has built generations of trains for the UK network.Derby was never just about building trains. It became a hub for engineering research driver training and railway management making it one of the most important rail cities in the world.​The Derby Conference Centre: A Railway Training LandmarkOne of Derby’s most iconic railway heritage sites is the Derby Conference Centre. Originally built in the 1930s as the LMS Railway Training College it was the first purpose built railway training facility in the UK.Here railway Managers and Engineers learned the skills they needed to run one of the largest transport networks in the world. The building’s elegant Art Deco design reflected the optimism of the railway industry at the time while its classrooms lecture halls and accommodation blocks created a self contained learning campus.Over the decades thousands of railway professionals passed through its doors shaping the future of Britain’s transport system.Today the Derby Conference Centre stands as a living reminder of that history still a place where people gather to share knowledge plan the future and celebrate the past.​​​​​​​Railway 200: Derby’s Moment to ShineAs part of Railway 200 celebrations Derby has embraced its role as the beating heart of Britain’s railways. Events across the city have showcased its unmatched contribution to train design manufacturing and skills development.While much of the attention has focused on factories like Alstom’s Litchurch Lane sitewhich continues Derby’s proud manufacturing tradition the city’s wider railway heritage is just as important from its museums and archives to the historic Derby Conference Centre. ​Why Derby’s Railway Story MattersDerby’s railway heritage is more than just history. It is a living story of:Innovation that transformed transport in Britain and beyondGenerations of skilled workers who built and maintained trainsA commitment to training and developing the workforce of the futureFrom steam to electric from the LMS Railway to today’s modern network Derby has adapted and led every step of the way.​Get Involved in Derby’s Rail FutureWhether you are an engineer a heritage enthusiast or someone starting a career in the rail sector Derby remains the place to be.Visit the Derby Conference Centre to experience a piece of living railway historyExplore our opportunities to join the next generation of rail professionalsRead our previous blog Railway 200 blog: 200 Years of Rail: How Signalling Has Evolved and What Comes Next

​Supporting the Severn Valley RailwayThe Rail Industry Joins Forces to Keep Heritage on Track​At Ganymede Solutions, we believe the rail industry is built not only on innovation and engineering excellence but also on community, heritage and collaboration. That’s why we were proud to join a recent industry-wide volunteer effort at the Severn Valley Railway (SVR), a vital heritage line that preserves the history and legacy of British rail. The companies taking part included Ganymede, A P Webb, AWE Technologies, Balfour Beatty, Central Rail Systems Alliance, CML, Colas, Crown Group, Forestry, Rail & Civils Ltd, Interflon, Network Rail, Rail Power and Construction Ltd, Shannon Rail, Staytite, Vital and VP Rail.​A Shared Commitment to Rail ExcellenceWhen the SVR issued a call for assistance with essential maintenance and vegetation clearance along its 16-mile route, the response from the wider rail community was immediate and enthusiastic. For us at Ganymede, stepping in to help wasn’t just an act of support, it was a reflection of who we are and our core values.Our colleagues, Gareth Jackson, Tyler Cook and Lina Oprisnykbrought decades of collective experience and rail-specific know-how to the table. Partnering with other leading industry names, our team contributed to the safe and efficient completion of critical infrastructure works, allowing SVR to maintain high safety standards and operational readiness ahead of peak summer season.​​People are our PassionOur involvement at SVR echoes our core value: People are our Passion. It was inspiring to see skilled professionals from across the UK come together, donating their time, tools, and talent to a shared cause. What made this project truly special was the shared passion evident in every conversation on-site. From clearing embankments and managing vegetation to ensuring safety protocols were rigorously followed, everyone contributed with purpose and pride.​Gareth Jackson, P Way Recruitment Consultant said: "It was a pleasure to be asked to help support ‘The Orange Army All Stars’, as a Handback on the Severn Valley Railway. This opportunity highlighted the capabilities we have within our team, to not only be a labour support provider, but a delivery team as well. Seeing the blend of traditional and modern railway methods used and how everyone came together to get the line open again, is an experience that will stay with me for a long time." ​Lina Oprisnyk, Gareth Jackson and Tyler Cook​Looking AheadAt Ganymede, we’re proud to support both the future and the foundations of the rail industry. Our thanks go out to the Severn Valley Railway for welcoming us, and to our fellow contributors across the sector.​

​Ganymede Safety Stand Down Days 2025: Strengthening Safety Culture Across Regions​At Ganymede, safety is not just a priority; it is a core value that connects every role, region, and individual within our organisation. In June 2025, we proudly hosted two successful Safety Stand Down Days, bringing together teams from across the South, North, and Midlands.Held at Canterbury RFC and our Doncaster office, these events created vital opportunities for teams to align on key safety practices, share experiences, and continue building a strong, proactive safety culture across the UK rail sector.​Focusing on Key Rail Safety TopicsOur Safety Stand Down Days addressed real-world operational challenges, evolving industry standards, and the need for strong safety leadership. Sessions included practical discussions and workshops on essential safety themes, such as:Protection/Possession Irregularities – Identifying and addressing safety issues early to prevent incidentsStandard 019 and Safety Documentation – Reinforcing clear, complete, and compliant safe system of work process and documentationSafety Critical Communications – Highlighting the updated NR/L2/OHS/301 standard and structured communicationClose Call Reporting– Promoting open reporting to drive continuous safety improvementsPPE Compliance – Emphasising correct and consistent use of personal protective equipmentSingle Approach to Isolation (SAI) – Deepening understanding of safe isolation procedures when working in AC Overhead Line areasFatigue Management – Using the Ganymede App and Fatigue Survey to monitor well-being and fitness to workLone Working at Stoats Nest – Reminding everyone the importance of managing the risks of working alone through correct planning and controls​​​​​​​​​​Workforce Engagement and Industry CollaborationOne of the standout successes of these events was the active participation of our workforce. Valuable conversations took place, driven by honest feedback, shared experiences, and a collective goal of improving workplace safety.At the Doncaster event, we welcomed Risktec Solutions, who are working with RSSB on the T1323 research project. This important initiative aims to understand how frontline track workers interact with existing safety reporting systems and identify any barriers to their effective use.Their workshop provided our teams with a platform to contribute to industry-wide improvements and strengthen the safety reporting culture.​Recognising Safety LeadershipWe were proud to present the Safety Stand Down Award in Doncaster to Joe Amour, whose exceptional performance during a recent handback shift demonstrated strong leadership and a commitment to safety excellence. Joe’s contribution ensured compliance, supported client planning, and created wider opportunities for his team.​Gareth Jackson, Recruitment Consultant and Joe Armour​Gary Lobue, Head of HSEQ, shared his thoughts on the events:​What makes these events special on a personal note is the opportunity to engage with our workforce, the people on the frontline. It gives me the chance to converse with them in person and hear their views, frustrations, and, above all, their passion and loyalty to this unique industry.​Dean Frost, Head of Rail (South) said:​What struck me most throughout our event was the dedication and honesty of our workforce.The open conversations, the real world insights, and the willingness to challenge norms all highlighted one thing: our people care deeply about doing the right thing, and they want to be part of shaping a safer future.It is that passion that fuels my own.We will continue to invest in these vital conversations, foster a culture where safety leadership is everyone’s responsibility, and keep pushing for excellence, not just in words but in action.Committed to Continuous Safety ImprovementThese events clearly reflected the power of bringing teams together with a shared purpose: to get everyone home safe, every day.We trust that all attendees found the sessions both useful and engaging. As a business, Ganymede remains fully committed to raising safety awareness, encouraging open dialogue, and promoting a strong, collaborative safety culture across all levels.The value of these sessions cannot be overstated. They are a vital part of our mission to create a safer, more resilient workforce.Thank you to everyone who attended, participated, and helped make the 2025 Safety Stand Down Days a success.

​200 Years of Rail: How Signalling Has Evolved and What Comes Next​In 2025, the UK celebrates Railway 200, marking two centuries since the birth of the modern railway. This milestone is more than just a look back. It is a chance to reflect on the innovations that have shaped rail infrastructure and to look ahead at what is still to come. Few aspects of the rail system have evolved more dramatically than signalling, a critical function that underpins both the safety and efficiency of the network.From the earliest manually operated levers and block systems to today’s digital interlockings and real time diagnostics, signalling has always sat at the intersection of technology, safety, and engineering excellence. But how has the discipline changed in recent decades, and what does the future hold?To explore these questions, we spoke with Dave Carter, Head of Rail Technical at Ganymede, a specialist in recruiting and managing signalling and safety critical rail professionals across the UK. His insights offer a window into both the heritage and the future of rail technical delivery in Britain.​A Historic Backbone: Signalling in the Story of Railway 200Signalling has been central to the railway since the beginning. As the first railways expanded, early systems relied on time intervals and visual signals to prevent collisions. The 19th and 20th centuries brought mechanical signal boxes, colour light signals, and centralised traffic control. Each leap forward was driven by the same goals we have today, increasing capacity, enhancing safety, and improving reliability.Railway 200 is a moment to recognise how these early innovations laid the foundation for what is now one of the most technically advanced safety systems in UK transport.“The most significant developments we are seeing today involve digital transformation, assurance, and competence,” says Dave Carter. “It is not just about moving trains, it is about making sure they are moved safely, compliantly, and consistently every time.”​Digital Transformation and the Challenge of CompetenceAs the UK rail network evolves, technology is rapidly redefining how signalling work is delivered. From the rollout of the European Train Control System to automated testing tools and cloud based documentation, the digital era has introduced both opportunities and challenges for the rail technical workforce.“Keeping pace with technology is one of our biggest responsibilities,” says Dave. “At Ganymede, we have revamped our competency management systems to ensure our signalling, stressing, and handback engineers are always prepared for the complexity of modern infrastructure.”These systems include detailed competency profiles and full Authority to Work documentation, which ensure that Engineers are not only experienced but actively verified as competent for the specific tasks they perform. In an era where safety and assurance are more scrutinised than ever, this kind of proactive oversight is vital.​The Role of Rail Technical in Safety and PerformanceWith infrastructure projects like the Transpennine Route Upgrade, Digital Railway initiatives, and ongoing Network Rail asset renewals, the technical workforce is under pressure to deliver faster, safer, and more cost efficient outcomes. At the centre of this is the relationship between frontline Engineers and the organisations that support them.“While Ganymede does not act as Principal Contractor, we work hand in hand with Tier 1 contractors to ensure high levels of compliance and delivery,” explains Dave. “By focusing on engagement and engineering standards, we help safeguard passenger safety and protect long term infrastructure reliability.”This emphasis on support, training, and process maturity reflects a wider trend across the rail industry. One that places value not just on labour, but on assurance, traceability, and continuous improvement.​Building the Future WorkforceAs the industry looks beyond Railway 200, one of its most pressing challenges is the pipeline of skilled Engineers. With much of the current workforce approaching retirement, rail faces a growing need to recruit, train, and retain the next generation of technical professionals.“One of the biggest challenges to agencies with transient workforces is maintaining competence over time,” Dave says. “It takes surveillance, mentorship, and smart investment to make sure skills do not fade.”To support this need, Ganymede works closely with clients to provide apprentice level engineers with real project exposure. Alongside technical training, these early career professionals receive mentoring and non technical development that helps prepare them for long term careers in signalling and rail safety critical roles.​Looking Ahead: A Smarter, Safer Rail IndustryRailway 200 is a celebration of the past, but also a call to action for the future. Signalling, once the hidden infrastructure of the railway, is now a driver of digital innovation, sustainability, and system resilience.As infrastructure becomes more complex and interconnected, the demands on signalling engineers and technical staff will only grow. Whether it is adapting to new tools, managing risks, or supporting major upgrades, the role of Rail Technical teams will remain central to the performance and safety of the network.“Our goal is not just to fill roles,” Dave concludes. “It is to work with our clients to build safe, effective solutions and a workforce ready for the next 200 years.”​Read our previous blog Railway 200 blog: Strengthening Compliance to Drive Safety and Excellence in the UK Rail Sector

​Working Safely in the Heat: Essential Tips for Operatives​Working in hot conditions increases the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion, sun-related illnesses, and fatigue. For operatives, understanding how to stay safe and healthy whenever working in the heat is vital to maintaining wellbeing and productivity.​Why Heat Safety Matters for OperativesHeat stress can quickly affect both physical and mental performance. Early symptoms include dizziness, confusion, excessive sweating, and fatigue. Recognising these warning signs and responding promptly is essential to prevent serious health issues.​Hydration: The Key to Staying Safe in the HeatSince water makes up around 75% of the human body, maintaining hydration is critical when working in heat. Operatives should:Drink at least 2 litres of water every day and increase this amount depending on activity levels and temperature.Avoid drinks that dehydrate, such as alcohol, coffee, tea, and caffeinated soft drinks.Carry a reusable water bottle at all times, whether travelling or on site.Use urine colour as a guide: dark, strong-smelling urine means more fluids are needed.To help keep hydrated, set regular reminders on phones or computers to drink water throughout the day.​Protecting Skin from UV DamageSkin damage is caused by UV rays, not temperature. This means skin can be harmed even when it feels cool or when the sky is cloudy. Key points include:UV exposure causes permanent skin damage regardless of skin type or colour.Fake tan lotions with SPF cannot be relied on for continuous protection.Un-tinted glass reduces sunlight but does not completely block UV rays, so prolonged exposure near windows can still cause damage.Always apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with an appropriate SPF and reapply regularly.Wear protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses to reduce UV exposure.​Recognising and Responding to Heat-Related FatigueBeing aware of heat-related fatigue is crucial. Watch for symptoms such as:Dizziness or light-headednessConfusion or difficulty concentratingExcessive sweating or clammy skinNausea or headachesIf these symptoms occur:Move to a cooler or shaded area immediatelyDrink water or electrolyte fluidsRest until symptoms improveSeek medical help if symptoms worsen​Practical Tips for Staying Safe Whenever Working in HeatStay hydrated by drinking water regularly.Wear light, breathable clothing that covers the skin.Use sunscreen and sun protection consistently.Take breaks in shaded or cool areas when possible.Keep a reusable water bottle with you at all times.Educate all team members on heat safety awareness and response.​For more information and additional resources, visit our Safety Hub.By prioritising hydration, sun protection, and early symptom recognition, operatives can stay safe and maintain their performance whenever working in hot conditions. Proper preparation and vigilance are key to managing heat risks effectively.

Project-Focused Staffing Solutions to Meet South Eastern Railwayʼs Workforce Demands​​South Eastern Railway, a major train operating company in the South East of England, required a rapid recruitment solution to meet operational demands under the Service Quality Regime. The roles involved installing, maintaining and repairing train interiors including windows, seating and fittings while ensuring compliance with safety standards and passenger expectations. A specialist team of Interior Standards Operatives was provided to support the newly formed Service Quality Regime Interior Standards Team, delivering essential maintenance and repair work within train maintenance to uphold high interior standards.​Our SolutionThe recruitment was completed within a short turnaround period to meet client demands and support the Service Quality Regime. Contractors were engaged on short-term rolling contracts, aligned to the client's Service Quality Regime audits and funding cycles. Initial Requirement: A team of 7 Technicians to start within 2 weeks, with ongoing talent pooling in place to support fluctuations in staffing needs throughout the project term. ​Additional Provision by Ganymede: Rail Standard Medical & D&A testing.Full rail depot PPE. Turnaround Time: 11 working days from client briefing to the first contractor cohort starting.​Value Added Ganymede Connect - Ganymede held a briefing with the hiring manager to understand the candidate profile required and created a tailored solo interview suite on Ganymede Connect for candidates to complete video interviews. South Eastern Railway selected preferred candidates directly from the talent dashboard. This significantly reduced their usual time to hire, minimised management time spent conducting interviews, and reduced visitor numbers to a busy safety-critical site. Rail Specific Onboarding Support – Ganymede managed all onboarding tasks, including offers, right to work checks, medical and drug & alcohol testing, and PPE provision. Start dates were staggered across two weeks to support internal capacity for inductions and training at the depot. This ensured the full team was deployed compliantly and fully operational within three weeks of the initial briefing. Talent Pooling – Continuous screening and talent pooling have taken place throughout the project via the Ganymede Connect platform and project talent dashboard. This has enabled a rapid response to fluctuating needs and ensured staffing levels consistently meet project demands.​Ganymede Connect makes the recruitment process so much easier. Having candidate interviews available to view remotely means the selection process becomes vastly more efficient. No longer do the interviewers have to be together in one place, reducing the need to coordinate diaries. Candidate interviews can also be tailored to answer specific questions relating to the assignment, making the selection process much quicker. Simply put, Ganymede Connect is a game changer for staff recruitment. D Paris Head of Fleet Engineering, South Eastern Railway.​Looking for a flexible, project focused staffing solution tailored to the unique demands of the transportation industry?Get in touch with Ganymede today to discover how our specialist workforce solutions can help you meet operational requirements, improve service quality and maintain compliance, even at short notice.​