Communities who came together in the early days of the railway provided housing and pastoral care to railway workers in need, through organisations like the Railway Mission and the Railway Housing Association. Their work has had a lasting impact on life today, contributing to the blueprint for the welfare state.
Find out moreChildren and young people facing abuse and neglect often turn to the railway in times of need, seeking safety, anonymity and the means to travel far away from their experiences. But of course, the street is no place for any child to grow up, which is why Railway Children work hard to look out for and protect young people across our railways.
Find out moreIn the 19th and 20th centuries, life working on the railways was dangerous. The Railway Benevolent Institution, known today as the Railway Benefit Fund, was founded in 1858 to support for the families of railway workers who were widowed and orphaned due to the dangerous nature of the railway at the time.
Find out moreRail employers were among the first to adopt workplace pensions, pioneering what is now an important pillar of social infrastructure for working people across all UK industries. Today, these pensions are invested across the UK, growing the economy and improving communities.
Find out moreThe rail industry has made it easier for people of all walks of life to connect with places and ideas by making travel more affordable and accessible. Today, rail leaders remain committed to building a more sustainable future with low emissions and mass transport.
Find out moreLeading the way on issues from safer working conditions and fair pay, to increasing access to training and education, rail’s trade unions have played a crucial role in securing more rights and opportunities for workers across the UK.
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