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We’re pleased to announce that we’ve been recognised at the 2025 Business Charity Awards. Our partnership with The Talent Foundry and Network Rail was Highly Commended in the Automotive & Transport category. 

The Talent Foundry is a charity that focuses on social mobility and unlocking opportunities for young people.

The Business Charity Awards celebrate the collaborations between businesses and charities that are making a real difference. For our partnership to be recognised in this way speaks to our ongoing dedication to social value.

What this recognition means to us

This important accolade highlights the impact of the mission we share with The Talent Foundry and others in rail. We’re seeking to open the industry up to young people from underserved communities and build a more diverse, skilled, and future-ready workforce.

Tom Hall, RSSB’s Social Sustainability Principal, shares his thoughts on the award: ‘The programme with The Talent Foundry shows the value of collaboration across the rail sector. 

‘Working with Network Rail and RSSB members including GTR, Arriva RL, Northern, Porterbrook, EMR, CAF, Alstom, and many others means as an industry we’re engaging young people in a consistent and effective way, while also showcasing the range of roles available. 

‘We were up against some amazing organisations, and this commendation reflects the impact of our collective approach.’

Our dedication to social value

For several years, we’ve been supporting programmes that spark long-term interest in rail careers. These include ‘Track to the Future’ and ‘Lightbulb Moments’.

The impact of this work has been significant. Here are a few highlights:

  • Over 2,300 students have been engaged in the past year alone.
  • Of those, 93% now have a strong understanding of rail careers.
  • And 87% feel more confident in their employability skills.

Of course, this wouldn’t have been possible without our partners and the many dedicated volunteers who give their time to this cause. So, we’d like to extend a huge thank you to The Talent Foundry, Network Rail, our fellow rail partners, and every volunteer who made this achievement possible. Together, we’re creating a more inclusive future for rail. We’re also opening up a whole new world for countless young people.

Thank you also to the Business Charity Awards for this honour.