Rail Minister backs ‘life-changing’ community rail projects

Rail Minister Andrew Jones has challenged train operators to step up their support for community rail projects across the UK as he launches the 2018 Community Rail Strategy.

On a visit yesterday (15 November 2018) to the Cumbrian Coast Line’s ‘rail journey to recovery’, one of the UK’s most successful community rail projects, the minister saw how former alcohol and drug addicts are gaining skills through job placements and training which involves the station, supporting them in getting back into work.

Meeting with volunteers and members of the scheme, the Rail Minister urged train companies to commit more time, materials and resources to shaping the future of the grassroots strategy, ensuring local people and their priorities are put first.