We are delighted to have made a major milestone in increasing access to health and mental wellbeing services for those on the frontline after we welcomed one thousand frontline colleagues into our mobile health, safety and wellbeing units.

SWGR took the initiative to its projects across the nation after realising that there was not as many frontline staff members from both its own team and supply chain partners taking up free health checks already available at its head offices. This trend mirrored that across the whole of the UK rail infrastructure – something which, under its Safe Together initiative, SWGR was determined to change.

Taking these units to the frontline, SWGR has now helped more than 1,000 frontline colleagues, regardless of whether they are SWGR colleagues, supply chain partner colleagues, or client colleagues. Operated by an occupational nurse, these units are able to complete health checks using specialist testing equipment.

SWGR also linked up with mental health charity Mates in Mind to provide vital support where it was required and help those who requested it with mental health support and advice. They have redefined the way that health and wellbeing is embraced across the rail industry – with the initiative commended as best practice by its clients. Most recently, SWGR showcased this at a Network Rail engagement event to demonstrate its importance.

Fiona Baggley, Director of Business Services, said: “We recognised that it was important, as a provider of infrastructure services, to be a catalyst for change in the rail industry and significantly increase access to these services.

“The success of our Mobile Health and Wellbeing Units has been a superb achievement for the business. To have seen 1,000 frontline workers take up the service in such a short period demonstrates the appetite the industry has for improving health and wellbeing engagement and the need for this service.

“This year has demonstrated the importance of regular health and wellbeing engagement for all, not just with standard health checks, but also the impact of mental health and benefits that can be derived from regular mental health support.

“We are seeing the rollout of these units making a significant difference to our team and industry colleagues, and as we continue to implement them across the UK’s rail network, we expect to see further uptake at increasing numbers.”

Alex Sharkey, Network Rail Alliance Director for Rail Systems Alliance Scotland, said: “SWGR’s attitude to safety is exemplary and their focus on wellbeing among all rail staff is sector-leading, with the health and wellbeing vehicles on site and professional health practitioners giving life-improving advice.

“SWGR is excellent in every regard, and I could not be more pleased and satisfied with their performance.”

SWGR specialises in a range of rail services including possession management; rail and non-rail welding; isolations planning, management and delivery; track renewals; frontline services provision; and seasonal support.