Making rail careers more attractive to disadvantaged young people
Many young people overlook the array of careers available within the rail sector due to preconceived ideas about railway roles.
They may also underestimate their opportunities, doubt their skills, or be unaware of the support available.
RSSB members and those involved with the Social Sustainability Working Group highlighted the need to engage more young people.
This will help address future skills gaps and provide a more effective delivery mechanism that boosts impact, ultimately benefiting industry as well as young people.
RSSB brought together 25 railway organisations to develop a comprehensive workbook and outreach programme designed to engage and inform young people about the opportunities on the railway.
The initial material will be delivered to five cohorts, engaging more than 100 young people throughout the UK and providing valuable insight into the world of the railways.
The aim now is to drive collaboration across the industry so that the programme can be expanded to reach more than 1,000 young people each year.
Rail organisations will be able to deliver a programme that is both impactful and efficient, improving industry outreach, and ensuring that delivery is manageable for those involved.
The approach means that projects will be delivered across multiple railway locations and with the support of industry volunteers.
In targeting areas of deprivation, progress will be made in social mobility by unifying the narrative on railway careers, simplifying school engagement, and ensuring that a consistent and inspirational experience is provided to young people of the highest need.