Charter sets standards for equality and diversity

Examples of best practice in how to embed an inclusive culture in modern, dynamic rail organisations feature in the first joint equality diversity and inclusion (EDI) Charter for Rail annual report.

Launched by the Railway Industry Association (RIA) and Women in Rail, the report includes submissions from 20 organisations including the Department for Transport, British Transport Police, Network Rail, ScotRail, Transport for London, Atkins, Costain, Keltbray, Nichols, Siemens Mobility, Worldline and WSP.

Started in November 2020, the EDI Charter for Rail now boasts 200 signatories from across the UK rail industry. It comes as Women in Rail celebrates its ten-year anniversary since being founded by Adeline Ginn.

“All of our work at Women in Rail is about raising awareness of the need for greater EDI and gender balance across the sector, and for a more diverse and inclusive workforce - a workforce that reflects the communities we work in,” said Women in Rail Chair Christine Fernandes.

“With partner RIA, the EDI charter is one of our key pieces of work, championing equality, diversity and inclusion in the rail industry and working together to build a more diverse and inclusive workforce to create a railway fit for the future.”

Rachel Fullard, who chairs the EDI Charter Working Group, added: “It is extremely gratifying to see how many companies have signed up to the EDI Charter so far. It shows that there is real passion for change around equality, diversity and inclusion.”

Every Charter signatory commits to inclusive practices, such as:

■ Appointing a member of the senior leadership team as ‘EDI Champion’.

■ Agreeing an action plan, monitoring and reporting on progress.

■ Providing opportunities for training and education for employees, supporting the progression of diverse individuals into senior roles.

■ Creating a culture fostering inclusion and providing space for all employees to talk openly, including at industry events and in meetings.

■ Making recruitment and progression processes accessible to all.

RIA and Women in Rail continue to welcome new signatories to the Charter. Contact info@edicharter.co.uk