September Skies: A New Season Awaits

Hi everyone,??

As the summer fades (or even begins, judging by the weather we’ve had this week), September often feels like a fresh start – a time to come back to work with renewed energy and focus...even for those who don’t have children of school age! And for many in the rail industry, it’s a time to re-engage with ongoing projects, take stock of what we’ve already achieved and set our sights firmly on delivering our goals in the final quarter of the year.??

This month I was reminded there is still much more work to be done when it comes to creating a truly inclusive environment for everyone. Unfortunately, recent events have underscored the very real challenges women still face in our industry. Transport for Wales (TfW) recently shared the story of Danielle and Jamilla – its first all-female, Black traincrew – on its social media platforms. While the vast majority, who have responded, have been positive there have been some very disappointing and hurtful comments too, particularly on Facebook.?

These two women are amazing role models for TfW and their stories proudly represent the diverse backgrounds and cultures that makes the organisation so unique. It was incredibly disappointing to read these comments and I know I speak for colleagues at TfW when I say that there is no place for discrimination or prejudice in our industry, or any industry. We must ensure that every woman in rail feels safe, supported and respected in their workplace and create a culture where every person – regardless of gender, race or background – can thrive.?

My ask? To please show your support by liking, resharing and commenting on the post. Let’s make this September not just a return to work but a return to the values of quality and respect that should define not only our industry but our society.??

Driving Positive Change??

But there are lots to be positive about and WR continues to be the force for good in the journey towards driving positive change in our industry:?

• I recently had the honour and pleasure of a catch up with Adeline Ginn MBE , the founding member of WR. Adeline was truly an inspiration and a pioneer for women and the rail industry and continues to be to this day. She’s also one of the reasons I put myself forward as chair for this amazing organisation. Adeline will continue to be a guiding mind for us at WR as part of her advisory role.?

• From our founder to our future – it was great to catch up with @Danielle and @Angie Doll on how we push further through our business strategy and the equity agenda, focusing on physical environment as well as culture.??

• ?With a continued focus on the future, I have written to the Rt Hon Louise Haigh MP (Secretary of State for Transport) and Lord Hendy, (Minister of State for Rail) to meet to discuss the WR business plan and our key focus areas over the next three years. We have also invited Louise to attend one of SWIFT events so watch this space – personally, I was particularly encouraged to see a nod to the benefit of diverse teams in delivering positive change for the customer in her recent statement to Parliament ahead of establishing Great British Railways.?

• Applications for our trustee position has now closed and I’m delighted to say we had more than 15 applications for our frontline post – we are developing plans now to create our frontline offer, so watch this space.?
• Today, we have our national event on period dignity with over 200 people registered so far - national events are a key part of how WR engages with our members on important topics. It was great to connect with Michelle Ansell recently around national events for WR. We are always looking for great ideas on national events so please get in touch with Women in Rail [email protected] if you would like to run one.?
• Registration is also open for Rail Wellbeing Live (5-7 November) a FREE event which puts health and wellbeing front of mind for employees within the rail industry.??

This week I was also incredibly inspired by our second session with the WR corporate sponsors around our Gender Equity Tick list. Thank you to @jill eyre Penny Marlow Isobel Money-Kyrle Assoc. CIPD Annabel Honour Kenny Burton Dannielle Dickens Heidi Cokayne for such an engaging session and candid insights that we will pull together and share as part of our report in the coming weeks.???

Wishing you all well for the start of this new season.??

Marie Daly

PS. This week I celebrated my one-year anniversary as Chair of Women in Rail – it's been an honour and a pleasure to lead this organisation. Here’s to many more years!???

PPS. I’d love to hear what you think of these blogs. Are there any topics or events you want to hear covered? Or anything I’m missing. Let me know in the comments.?

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Get involved: Upcoming Events?

• Join Women in Rail for their ‘Period Dignity’ event – 19 Sep. More info.?

• Join Women in Rail East Midlands for their "Summer BBQ and Social" Event – 19 Sep. More info.?

• Join Women in Rail Scotland for their ‘From Competition to Collaboration Workshop’ – 25 Sep. More info.???

• An Evening with Dr Kamel Hothi OBE, an exclusive event for SWiFT members. Hosted by WSP, sponsored by Newsom Consulting and Network Rail – 26 Sep. More info.??

• Join Women in Rail Yorkshire for their 'Major Projects in the North of England and Their Impact on Local Communities' event – 26 Sep. More info.?

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