Million Hour Challenge

Network Rail Suicide Prevention Programme Manager Ian Stevens MBE and HM Chief Inspector of Railways Ian Prosser CBE have joined forces to encourage greater numbers of rail staff to take part in the Million Hour Challenge.

Established in March 2019, the Million Hour Challenge aims to generate a million hours of volunteering and to raise £2.5 million for Samaritans by the end of Control Period 6 in March 2024.

Rail staff can volunteer as Samaritans listeners or fulfil a number of other vital ‘back office’ functions, including IT support and project management.

Individuals can also enter into the spirit of the Million Hour Challenge by participating in fundraising events or by simply asking colleagues how they feel.

Stevens said: “The Million Hour Challenge is a great way to get involved in promoting mental health and wellbeing. It is a crossindustry programme which has great value to all concerned.”

Prosser added: “Participation has been encouraging so far, but we’d like see it more embedded in the supply chain, so please get involved.”

For information, visit www. millionhourchallenge.com