Throughout the year, the Rail Media team works tirelessly to make each RailStaff Awards night bigger and better than ever before. Months of planning go into every detail – from perfecting the theme, booking guests, and confirming sponsors, to ensuring the event runs seamlessly to schedule on the night.
Behind the scenes, ideas are constantly exchanged and refined as we look back on what has worked well in previous years and where we can improve to deliver an even more memorable celebration.
As the rail network continues to evolve, so too must the awards that celebrate its people. The industry never stands still, and our categories need to reflect the breadth and diversity of modern railway roles. Every year, we review our line-up and ask ourselves what remains relevant, what needs updating, and where new recognition might be due. It’s a process that ensures the RailStaff Awards stays in tune with an industry that thrives on innovation, collaboration, and progress.
A new award!
In 2025, we’re proud to introduce a brand-new category – the Project Team or Person (over £5 million) Award. This new honour recognises individuals or teams who have successfully delivered large-scale railway projects exceeding £5 million in value.
From complex infrastructure upgrades to station redevelopments and signalling improvements, such projects demand exceptional leadership, technical expertise, and the ability to unite multiple disciplines towards a shared goal. The award celebrates the people whose vision, coordination, and hard work bring transformative rail schemes to life, shaping the network for generations to come.
Sponsoring this year’s inaugural award is Henderson & Taylor, a highly respected multi-disciplinary contractor which works across the Highways, Civil Engineering, and Rail Infrastructure sectors. The company’s core services include infrastructure projects, public realm improvements, road surfacing, structures, traffic management, and highways recycling. Within the rail sector, Henderson & Taylor is well known for delivering high-quality station upgrades and associated improvements that enhance passenger experience and operational efficiency.
Responsible innovation
With over 60 years’ experience, Henderson & Taylor has built a reputation for reliability, quality, and innovation. Its 26-acre recycling and concrete batching facility in Thurrock supports the company’s drive to maximise recycling and reuse across projects. This commitment to responsible innovation makes Henderson & Taylor an ideal partner for an award that celebrates excellence in delivering major projects.
Matt Lynch, managing director of Henderson & Taylor said: “We’re delighted to have to opportunity to support the award for the best Project Team or Person (over £5 million). As a company which strives to showcase quality and innovation in rail schemes using our own in-house resources, we understand the tremendous effort and expertise it takes to truly excel in the delivery of these bigger projects.
“The Rail Staff Awards are a brilliant occasion to recognise the incredible work our people and teams achieve, and we look forward to celebrating the best within the industry together.”
Partnerships with industry leaders like Henderson & Taylor help ensure the RailStaff Awards remains a true celebration of excellence across the sector. By recognising those who deliver complex, high-value projects, this new award highlights the skill, dedication, and innovation driving Britain’s railway forward.
It’s a fitting reminder that behind every successful scheme there are people whose hard work keeps the industry moving and improving year after year.
