Guy Yeomans
Professional Head of Foresight and Horizon Planning, RSSB
What do Transport for London, the NHS, the Ministry of Justice, Marks & Spencer, the Co-op, and Jaguar Land Rover have in common? They were among those organisations that suffered serious, disruptive cyberattacks last year.
Cyberattacks are of course only one type of risk.
Hazards and threats to our security, economy, and infrastructure are not only increasing in number. They are also rapidly shifting in shape and approach, and generating greater impacts.
We are now navigating what experts describe as a 'dynamic risk environment'.
These emerging risks—whether driven by technology, crime, conflict or weather—are often interconnected and can disrupt diverse organisations and sectors.
Helping rail freight with emerging risks
Rail underpins the UK economy, moving essential goods across complex, interdependent supply chains. Disruption can be felt far beyond the railway itself, with a wider effect on society. All operators in the rail sector need a good understanding of these risks to address them.
So, what can be done to identify and plan for the impact of those risks in the freight sector in particular?
RSSB is now working with industry partners to help freight companies adapt a forward-looking approach to risk, understanding how risk may change or how new risk may emerge in the future.
Emerging Risks Horizon Scanning
At the core is a new Emerging Risks Horizon Scanning service, developed under the Freight Safe Programme (FSP). The service is designed specifically for freight operating companies, and the service offers a practical, evidence-based view of future risks and their potential impact on freight operations and supply chains.
How does the service work?
It provides twice-yearly briefs—detailed reports that analyse key trends shaping the risk landscape, from cyber threats to political instability and rapid technological change.
There is a process to help companies translate risk intelligence into decision-making through tailored self-assessment and workshops.
It also offers a complementary on-demand monitoring and support service. Launching in April 2026, it will track how these risks evolve over time, helping companies continuously adapt their strategies.
This collaboration between RSSB, the FSP, and the freight operating companies themselves is critical in uncertain times.
The combination of intelligence, partnership, and practical support promises to help freight operators stay ahead of the curve. And they can build resilience into everyday planning and operations.
If you would like to know more about emerging risks in the freight sector, please contact Guy Yeomans.