Your fast track to industry insight...
From infrastructure and rolling stock to innovation, exports, skills, and strategy, we sit down with industry leaders, clients, government voices, and subject matter experts to connect the dots across a fast-evolving sector.
Each episode supports our mission of “Unleashing UK rail excellence, together” — aligning with our core pillars of supporting, connecting, informing, and representing our diverse member base. Whether you’re part of the rail supply chain, a policymaker, or simply passionate about the future of transport, join us for insight, collaboration, and conversation that moves the industry forward.
Available on all your favourite podcast platforms:
Episodes
Rail Safety Week Series
To launch Rail Safety Week 2025, Rail Forum Chair Will Rogers is joined by Sir Andrew Haines, Chief Executive of Network Rail, for a thoughtful discussion on what safety means to the industry today.Together they explore Andrew’s personal reflections on key events that shaped his approach to safety, the importance of psychological safety and wellbeing, the role of technology in reducing risk, and the responsibilities leaders carry in driving cultural change. The episode also touches on the future of the industry, including Great British Railways and AI.
A timely and honest conversation highlighting the need for continual progress in making our railway safer for all.
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Watch a video-recorded version of this podcast episode on our Youtube Channel.
In this episode, Richard shares his deeply personal journey with mental health—offering honest reflections on his diagnosis, recovery, and how we can better support mental wellbeing across the rail sector.
Diagnosed with depression in 2018, Richard opens up about the early signs he missed, the support he received through the NHS and an Employee Assistance Programme, and how structured therapy alongside peer support helped him manage his condition. He stresses that mental health is not something that simply disappears—but with the right tools, it can be managed. Throughout the conversation, Richard advocates for openness, urging both individuals and employers to create space for honest discussions. He highlights the danger of suffering in silence in high-pressure roles and encourages small but meaningful gestures from colleagues—like checking in or recognising subtle behavioural changes.
Now volunteering with Canaries Trust, Richard champions the role of community and shared experience in providing authentic support, while also calling for greater accessibility from mental health services. His message is clear: talk early, be curious about your own wellbeing, and don’t wait until things become critical.
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Please see the below list of Mental Health Support resources:
- The Railway Mental Health Charter (RMHC)
A framework to help promote, manage, and support workforce mental wellbeing.
- RSSB Mental Wellbeing Hub
Toolkits and practical advice for rail employers and staff.
https://www.rssb.co.uk/about-rssb/key-industry-topics/health-and-wellbeing/mental-wellbeing
- Railway Benefit Fund (RBF)
Confidential help including counselling grants and wellbeing support.
- Railway Mission
Pastoral care and emotional support from dedicated rail chaplains, available for all staff.
- Mental Health First Aid England
Training to help identify, understand and support mental health in the workplace.
- Mind – Workplace Wellbeing
Resources for improving mental health at work.
- Andy’s Man Club
Free, confidential men’s mental health groups.
- Samaritans (Rail Industry Partnership)
24/7 free support.
- CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably)
Confidential support focused on suicide prevention.
Patron Series
