Equality, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI) is a core value for many organisations. Though a few companies are still coming to terms with the concept and there is pushback from some quarters, EDI is increasingly becoming a pillar of a firm’s key principles, creating a culture of acceptance and support.
The RailStaff Awards recognise the vital efforts of teams and individuals who are champions in this space with the Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Person or Team Award.
Freightliner has sponsored the award for several years and lends its support again in 2025. Misconceptions of rail freight have created something of an image problem for the sector, and Freightliner is committed to improving diversity, championed by CEO Tim Shoveller.
In recent years, gender equality has become an increasingly important topic for the business and a target has been set to increase Freightliner’s female workforce year-on-year as part of a five-year strategy. Gender focus is part of a broader EDI strategy.
Freightliner throws itself into EDI initiatives including International Women’s Day, the Big Logistics Diversity Challenge, everywoman in Transport & Logistics, and Women in Rail among others. These are valued initiatives used to share experiences and examine and discuss topics that are important to the female frontline workforce.
Tim Shoveller, CEO, commented: “We see a significant challenge in encouraging more people to join our industry, but becoming more diverse is a really important way of doing that. It makes our business stronger, and diversity significantly improves competitiveness, innovation, and profitability.
“It’s important that as leaders, managers, and employees throughout the organisation, we stand up and are clear in our objectives. I’m really determined that we build an inclusive culture, one where everyone feels safe – not just physically but psychologically too.”
Selflessly dedicated
Carys Thomas, safety audit manager at Great Western Railway (GWR), was astounded when she was honoured with the top prize in 2024. In her eight years at GWR, Carys has continually devoted her time to advocating for safety, career opportunities, and accessibility within the railway industry.
Carys selflessly volunteers her own time, supporting various departments and community rail partners, including leading LGBTQIA+ events and conducting driver simulator sessions to encourage girls to join the railway in STEM-related areas. She has also written a dual English/Welsh language book, Rupee & Sushi Travel By Train, to help anyone nervous about travelling on the network.
“I’m in shock, I don’t know what else to say,” said Carys when she picked up the award. “Thank you so much to the person who nominated me, and to those who kindly voted to get the nomination through to judging. I’d also like to thank my wife, who works in accessibility, as well as Rupee and Sushi my two dogs who inspired the book.”
“Everyone nominated for this category is really making a difference to our industry,” said Tim, after presenting Carys with the award.
“What I enjoy about the RailStaff Awards is the diversity of the people who are shortlisted. It’s very representative of modern society. The RailStaff Awards are really helping to drive forward the crucial message of EDI.”
