The Rail Forum Podcast

Expansion and Investment in the UK - Wabtec

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.

Initiate Scotland - Driving Safer, Smarter Possessions on the Railway

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.

Talking 'Violence Against Women and Girls' with Laura Shoaf CBE, Chair of Shadow Great British Railways

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.

Talking 'Mental Health' with Richard Clinnick, Editor at Modern Railways

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.

Talking 'Rail Safety' with Sir Andrew Haines, Chief Executive of Network Rail

Rail Forum Chair, Will Rogers, speaks with Sir Andrew Haines (Chief Executive of Network Rail) about all things 'Safety in Rail' - an insightful and poignant conversation as Rail Safety Week 2025 (#RSW25) commences.