ria-logo-large

We’re thrilled that the Railway Mental Health Charter (RMHC) has been shortlisted for the Wellbeing Award at the 2025 RIA RISE Awards. We developed the RMHC alongside Southeastern to support organisations across the rail industry in preventing and managing mental health difficulties.

The Rail Industry Association (RIA) plays a key role in championing a dynamic, high-performing UK rail supply sector. With over 400 companies in membership, RIA is active across the whole of railway supply.

RIA’s RISE Awards recognise the achievements of the rail supply community in a range of categories. 

About the Railway Mental Health Charter

The RMHC was created to provide a clear framework for rail to improve the mental wellbeing of its workforce. 

Rail workers face a number of unique challenges. Those include changing shift patterns, demanding work conditions, and potential exposure to traumatic events. Because the RMHC recognises this, it has so far gained the support of over 100 organisations. 

By signing the RMHC, these organisations commit to a structured and evidence-based approach to managing mental health. 

Members have access to valuable resources and support. In turn, this enables them to:

  • assess their current mental health provisions
  • address existing challenges
  • drive continuous improvement in this critical area.

But the RMHC goes beyond providing individual organisational support. It has also fostered a collaborative network across the rail industry. 

This network enables the sharing of good practices. It also encourages the collective development of strategies to advance mental wellbeing throughout the sector.  And this collaborative spirit ensures that the framework remains relevant and effective. 

The RMHC shows a growing industry-wide commitment to the psychological safety and wellbeing of GB’s rail workers. And as more organisations adopt it, they can expect to see:

  • lower costs associated with poor mental health
  • enhanced productivity
  • improvements in mental health support systems
  • less stigma around mental health issues
  • a more open and inclusive workplace culture. 

Ultimately, the RMHC aims to create an environment where people feel valued, supported, and empowered to seek help. The hope is that this contributes to a healthier, happier, and higher-performing workforce.

What this recognition means to us

Southeastern’s Lee Woolcott-Ellis ACIRO is the founder of the RMHC. He’s weighed in on what this recognition means for the train operator and for RSSB.

‘We are very proud that the [RMHC] has been shortlisted for a RISE Award.

‘This recognition reflects a massive collaborative effort across the industry to prioritise mental health and wellbeing. 

‘For both RSSB and Southeastern, it’s a testament to our shared commitment to creating a healthier, more supportive railway for everyone working there.’