Publication of an industry wide study on good practice for mental health

The study ‘Understanding and providing recommendations for good practice mental health provision in the rail industry: an industry wide study’ was published in April 2023. It has been prepared by Samaritans in partnership wit Mental Health at Work and was commissioned by Great Western Railway and the Department for Transport.

The study aimed to:

• Explore the support, resources and interventions available for rail staff mental health and wellbeing.
• Understand staff awareness and experience of mental health support within their organisations.
• Understand the issues and barriers to mental health within the rail sector.

The published report provides recommendations for mental health provision, assisting industry in raising awareness for staff. It provides support for those experiencing mental illness and encourages a culture shift to further destigmatise conversations around mental health.

The study also recognises the Railway Mental Health Charter as a key tool for informing and developing mental health strategies and initiatives in the rail industry.