Rail

​People at the Heart of Britain’s Railway​Britain’s railway is delivered by people. Every day, operatives across the network work in demanding environments to keep the railway running safely and reliably, often out of public view. Their experience, skill and commitment underpin every successful shift on track. At Ganymede, listening to those voices is essential. One person who spends significant time on track speaking directly with operatives is Louise Parker, Ganymede’s Workforce Champion. Through her own career journey and regular site presence, Louise provides insight into how today’s workforce views the future of the industry and what is needed to deliver work safely and effectively. ​Developing Skills for the Future of Rail Louise’s conversations with operatives consistently highlight the importance of competence, experience and progression. “From gaining PTS in 2015 through progressing to Lookout, Site Warden, DC Strapper and eventually COSS, my own journey reflects how the workforce believes the future lies in developing competent, experienced people who can safely deliver renewals, re-rails, sleeper changes and other essential track work.” There is a shared understanding across the workforce that investing in skills and people on the ground is key to building a safe, capable and sustainable railway. Safety. Practical, Consistent and Led from Site ​​Safety remains central to every discussion Louise has on track. “Speaking with Operatives on site shows that safety is strongest when it’s practical, consistent and led by those doing the job.” Operatives value clear planning, realistic workloads and the confidence to stop work if something is not right. Strong communication, practical application and leadership from site continue to underpin a culture where everyone feels empowered to challenge unsafe situations and go home safe at the end of every shift. ​Commitment and Everyday Pressures Spending time on site provides Louise with a clear understanding of the realities operatives manage day to day. “Being out on track with teams in real working conditions provides valuable insight into the realities operatives manage alongside their roles.” Louise consistently sees a highly committed workforce, motivated by supporting their families and meeting everyday responsibilities. While work patterns and shift changes can present challenges, operatives continue to demonstrate resilience and adaptability. These insights help shape the support Louise focuses on as Workforce Champion, including clearer forward planning and greater consistency to help operatives stay engaged and deliver safely. ​Women on Track and a Changing Industry Louise’s time on track also reflects how the makeup of the workforce has evolved. “When I first started working on track, I was often the only woman on site, which felt unfamiliar at the time.” As working relationships developed, respect was built through competence, teamwork and a strong safety mindset. “Over the years, I’ve seen a noticeable increase in the number of women entering operational roles, which reflects a positive cultural shift.” The growing diversity across operational roles reflects an industry moving in the right direction and recognises that a broader workforce strengthens the future of the railway. ​What Operatives Want the Public to Understand Finally, Louise highlights what operatives most want recognised about their work. “Operatives want the public to understand the hard work, skill and teamwork that goes into keeping the railway safe and running smoothly. Much of what we do happens behind the scenes, often in tough conditions.” ​At Ganymede, operatives are at the heart of everything we do. Their experience, skill and commitment are what keep Britain’s railway moving safely every day.Through her role as Workforce Champion, Louise Parker plays a vital part in ensuring those voices are heard, understood and acted upon. By spending time on track and listening to real experiences, she provides a direct link between the workforce and the solutions we deliver. By championing the needs of operatives, Louise helps shape the tailored people solutions we provide for our clients. This focus on people, safety and long-term support allows us to strengthen today’s workforce and help prepare the railway for the future.

Mental Health Matters: 200 Years of Rail, 200 Years of People​As the UK celebrates 200 years of the railway, much of the spotlight rightly falls on achievements in infrastructure, innovation and growth. But behind every milestone are the people who keep the industry moving. This Mental Health Awareness Week, Ganymede is focusing on the wellbeing of those individuals by highlighting the work of its Mental Health First Aiders and the value of everyday support within the rail sector.​Listening First, Supporting Always​For Victoria Richards, Office Coordinator in Rail, trust is at the heart of her role as a Mental Health First Aider. Her colleagues often come to her because they feel safe opening up. Victoria explained that when asked to take on the training, she was glad to accept. She said, "Being a lady of a certain age, the operatives see me as a mother figure. When Gary asked me to attend the course, I was happy to expand my understanding of mental health further."Gary Lobue, Head of HSEQ, brings a broader perspective from across the business. He believes mental health support is essential in rail due to the unique pressures faced by the workforce. "Shift patterns, fatigue and job uncertainty all add pressure. People are often afraid to speak up, especially in a male-dominated industry."Suzanne Thorpe, Health and Safety Manager, agrees that support is critical, especially during periods of uncertainty. "Change can be a major trigger for mental health issues. Providing support helps people cope through uncertain times."​Training That Makes a Difference​Each of Ganymede’s Mental Health First Aiders has undertaken recognised training, but the true value often lies in listening and being present.Gary described a moment that left a lasting impression. "He needed someone who would listen, and I was that person." Taking time to truly hear someone’s experience had a positive impact when it mattered most.Victoria recalled when an operative turned to her shortly after a personal tragedy. "He sat with me and talked for two hours. I helped direct him to support, and he was so grateful."Suzanne added that even small actions carry great weight. "It is not always about grand gestures. Sometimes it is just taking the time to genuinely listen."​Shifting Attitudes​Progress is visible across the industry. Dave Carter, Head of Technical Resource for Rail, noted the shift in awareness and openness. "There is far more awareness now than there was 20 years ago. People are more open and self-aware."At Ganymede, mental health is now introduced as part of the induction process. Victoria shared, "It’s become normal to have conversations about it."Suzanne emphasised that lasting change depends on everyday leadership. "Support has to be consistent through line management, not just at the top."​Looking Ahead​The hope for the future is clear. By the time rail celebrates 250 years, Ganymede’s Mental Health First Aiders want to see an industry where stigma no longer prevents people from seeking help.Victoria put it simply. "Ideally it would be lovely to be rid of the stigma."Gary added that while mental health issues may never disappear entirely, awareness and openness will make a difference. "We will never eliminate mental health issues, but we can keep promoting awareness so people feel safe to speak up."As the rail industry looks toward the future, progress will be measured not only in miles of track or technical advancement, but also in the strength of its people. Supporting mental health today lays the foundation for a healthier, more resilient workforce in the years to come.​Read our previous blog: 200 Years of Rail: A Frontline Focus