The rail industry has its fair share of awards nights, but none quite like the RailStaff Awards. So, what makes it so special?
The night is all about the people of the railway. You won’t see any awards for companies – just the inspiring individuals and teams who keep the railway rolling. It’s a celebration of the everyday heroes who make a real difference.
Whether they’re supporting their teammates, going the extra mile for customers, or making the world a little brighter at stations and on trains, this is their night to shine – and have a blast while they’re at it!
You must know someone who deserves a shoutout, so why not give them their chance in the spotlight? Pick from the categories below and nominate them today!
The categories
In 2025, we’re excited to present 20 award categories in which you can nominate your colleagues and co-workers:
- Apprentice of the Year Award
- Charity Award
- Customer Service Team or Person Award
- Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Team or Person Award
- Graduate of the Year Award
- Health & Wellbeing Team or Person Award
- HR & Recruitment Team or Person Award
- Innovation & Technology Team or Person Award
- Learning, Development & Investing in People Award
- Lifesaver Award
- Lifetime Achievement Award
- Project Team or Person Award (over £5 million)
- Project Team or Person Award (under £5 million)
- Rail Ambassador of the Year Award
- Rail Engineer of the Year Award
- Rail Manager of the Year Award
- Railway Depot Team or Person Award
- Safety Team or Person Award
- Station Staff Team or Person Award
- Sustainability Champion of the Year Award
How do I nominate?
Just about anyone can nominate a team or individual for an award – co-workers, managers, friends, union reps, even members of the general public who’ve experienced superb service.
There’s just one rule. No nominating yourself! That’s not really what we’re here for.
If you think you know someone who deserves an award, just fill in the form on www.railstaffwards.com and the nomination will be added to the site after validation by a member of our team. Nominating is free and only takes a few minutes.
Once all the nominations are in, it’s time for the public to have their say. Anyone can hop onto the RailStaff Awards website and cast their vote —whether it’s for a story that really stands out or simply to cheer on a good friend or colleague.
When the votes are counted, our independent judging panel steps in. They’ll take a close look at the top 15 nominees in each category and pick a winner, plus up to two ‘highly commended’ entries.
Who takes the spotlight? You’ll have to wait for the big night to find out!
Show your support
The RailStaff Awards is a spectacular event dedicated to celebrating those who make the rail industry great. Guests can expect an exquisite dining experience, exhilarating entertainment, and the heartwarming glow of having championed their peers.
This unforgettable night wouldn’t be possible without the steadfast support of the industry. There are a range of exciting sponsorship opportunities available — a chance to showcase your brand while supporting the heroes of rail.
Initial sponsors for the 2025 RailStaff Awards include:
- Carlisle Support Services
- Freightliner Group
- RailwayPeople.com
- Readypower Group
- Telent
- Transport Benevolent Fund CIO (TBF)
Thank you all for your early support in helping to bring this event to life!
If your organisation is interested in sponsoring a specific award or contributing to the event more broadly, we’d love to connect with you.
