The Workforce for a Modern Railway

The rail industry faces challenges like an aging workforce and gaps in understanding diversity, particularly for disabled and LGBT+ employees. EDI is essential for a safer, more reliable railway, better service delivery, and attracting diverse talent. The Rail Industry Association and Women in Rail launched the EDI Charter to promote diversity and gender balance, with over 160 companies participating. Network Rail's Everyone Belongs strategy aims to create an inclusive environment and attract top talent through targeted recruitment and mixed interview panels. But what else can be done to make the industry attractive and inclusive? Would continuous investment programs retain skills, grow expertise, and create sustainable jobs? Join this panel to understand the challenges and what the future holds.

Between April 2023 and March 2024, there were 10 non-workforce fatalities, including seven on the mainline, two on the London Underground, and one from a tram collision. Additionally, there were 12 deaths from trespassing, two at level crossings, and 274 suicides or suspected suicides on the mainline. On March 14, 2024, a track worker was nearly hit by a train while searching for a lineside cabinet but was alerted by a member of the public and the train driver's horn, moving to safety just in time.  Another incident happened on the October 5, 2024; a road-rail vehicle collided with a trolley near Brading in the Isle of Wight. Separately, a train with technical difficulties travelled for about 10 seconds with five doors open due to brake issues, but no one was injured. As the railway continues to strive to be the safest form of transport, incidents will happen. So, what is the industry doing to provide the safest work environment for its staff and what support is available when things go wrong? Join this panel discussion to find out more.

Over the next two decades, 80% of the rail industry workforce will require upskilling to maintain service levels and meet future demand. This challenge is compounded by an aging trainer profile and a looming retirement cliff, with nearly 50,000 employees expected to retire by 2030. The industry often replaces retirees with older workers, and the proportion of under-25s has halved since 2016, now making up just 5% of the workforce. To address this, around 5,000 apprentices per year, or 2% of the workforce, will be needed, doubling current levels. Additionally, 200,000 workers will need new digital skills by 2030, including 110,000 needing upskilling, 80,000 needing reskilling, and 10,000 new apprenticeships. Quite a challenge for the industry but what can be done? Join this panel to get involved with the discussion and explore options for solutions.