Rail Forum and UKTram are pleased to announce a strategic partnership designed to strengthen collaboration across the UK’s rail and light rail sectors. This partnership aims to deliver increased value to members of both organisations through shared initiatives, mutual support, and aligned objectives.
The partnership formalises their existing working relationship, which earlier this year saw UKTram Chair Steve Edwards supporting a Light Rail roundtable with Mike Hill, Deputy Director for Rail and Maritime at the Department for Business & Trade.
As part of this collaboration, members of both Rail Forum and UKTram will benefit from:
Joint Project and Policy Engagement: Both organisations will actively identify and pursue opportunities for collaboration on specific projects and policy matters, offering members a stronger, unified voice on industry issues.
Expanded Access to Events: Members will benefit from reciprocal access to a selection of events hosted by each organisation including a joint event in November.
Integrated Sector Representation at Events: Where appropriate, events organised by Rail Forum and UKTram will incorporate light rail and mainline rail content respectively, providing members with broader insights and cross-sector learning opportunities.
Enhanced Communications and Promotion: Members will enjoy increased visibility through the promotion of relevant news, events and opportunities across both organisations’ communications platforms, including newsletters and quarterly updates.
Strategic Partner Recognition: Each organisation will recognise the other as a strategic partner on their website, strengthening industry connections and enhancing member credibility.
Support for Innovation Initiatives: Both Rail Forum and UKTram will work together to deliver the Light Rail SME Challenge 2025, providing a valuable platform for SMEs to showcase innovation and connect with key stakeholders.
James Hammett, Managing Director at UKTram, said: “Collaboration between industry bodies like Rail Forum and UKTram is essential as we respond to shared challenges and opportunities. We’re proud to stand for collaboration, innovation and proactive sector leadership and we look forward to providing even greater value for the wider rail industry by aligning our efforts. This partnership provides another valuable platform for connecting our members with new insight and support.”
Cat Appleby, Membership & Engagement Director at Rail Forum, said: “We are delighted to launch this partnership with UKTram which creates new opportunities for members to connect, innovate, and shape the future of a more joined-up and passenger-focused transport network.”
This partnership underscores a shared commitment to driving excellence, collaboration and growth across the UK transport sector. We look forward to delivering tangible benefits for all our members as this partnership evolves.