The Rail Forum Podcast

As Rail Safety Week 2026 approaches, Rail Forum CEO Elaine Clark OBE is joined by Richard Hines, HM Chief Inspector of Railways and Director of Railway Safety at the Office of Rail and Road (ORR), to discuss why safety must remain at the heart of everything the railway does. In this special introductory episode, Elaine and Richard explore the importance of maintaining focus on safety across a complex and constantly evolving railway environment - from workforce safety and infrastructure risk, to level crossings, trespass, fatigue, and the introduction of new technologies. The conversation highlights the shared responsibility for keeping the railway safe, not only across the industry itself, but also among passengers and the wider public. Richard also reflects on the opportunities and challenges presented by industry change, including the transition towards Great British Railways, and why strong safety culture, collaboration and accountability remain critical throughout periods of transformation. The episode also recognises the huge contribution made every day by frontline staff, signallers, engineers, maintainers, operators, contractors and emergency responders who work tirelessly to keep the railway running safely. Launching the 2026 Rail Safety Week series, this discussion sets the scene for an industry-wide week of engagement, learning and collaboration - reinforcing a simple but vital goal: ensuring everyone goes home safe every day. — 🔗 Follow Rail Safety Week 2026 from 15–21 June: www.railsafetyweek.org 🔗 Learn more about the ORR: www.orr.gov.uk

In the second episode of the Rail Forum Patron Podcast Series, Elaine Clark OBE sits down with Tim Bentley, Group Managing Director and Regional Vice President at Wabtec, to explore the company’s significant new investment programme in the UK — including the development of a £30 million rail technology hub in Barton.   Tim shares how Wabtec’s expanded capabilities will strengthen the UK supply chain through: Enhanced engineering, digital and subsystem expertise Greater domestic capability across wheelsets, bogies, air-con, electronics and more A growing apprenticeship pipeline and long-term investment in skills New data-driven approaches to asset management and performance improvement   The conversation also looks more broadly at the future of the railway: collaboration between suppliers and operators, the role of GBR, and the importance of confidence and stability for long-term investment decisions.   This episode offers an honest, forward-looking discussion about how a stronger UK supply chain can support better performance, lower lifecycle costs, and improved outcomes for passengers and freight customers.

In this inaugural episode of the Rail Forum Patron Podcast Series, we explore how 'Initiate' is transforming the way railway possessions are managed in Scotland.   Craig Milne, Planning and Logistics Director at Network Rail Scotland, and Ben Rudkin, Operations Director at Resonate, join the discussion to share how collaboration and innovation have enhanced safety, efficiency, and planning across the network.   Hosted by Jemma Smalls, Communications, Policy and Public Affairs Manager of Rail Forum, this episode shines a light on how partnership between Network Rail and industry suppliers is driving practical, scalable improvements — delivering a safer, smarter, and more connected railway.

In the final episode of our Rail Safety Week 2025 series, Elaine Clark OBE (Rail Forum) is joined by Laura Shoaf CBE (Shadow Great British Railways) for a powerful conversation on tackling Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) in the rail sector. Together they explore the scale of the issue, the importance of leadership and cultural change, and the practical steps that can help create safer journeys for both passengers and staff across the wider transport network.

The conversation centers around mental health, with Richard sharing his personal journey, reflections on recovery, and thoughts on the state of mental health support within the rail industry.