Southeastern boosts female representation by 50% in two years

Southeastern has encouraged more women to pursue careers in the rail industry this International Women’s Day. 

The company has seen a 50% increase in the number of female train drivers and conductors over the past two years, aiming to break the stereotype of rail being a male-dominated field.

Southeastern said it is dedicated to raising this further by rolling out various initiatives.

Southeastern offers women apprenticeships in leadership and coaching programmes to promote gender equality. 

To support underrepresented groups, Southeastern collaborated with ‘Rail Unites for Inclusion’ to offer mentorship opportunities, aiming for a more inclusive leadership pipeline.

It has also introduced a new safety standard for expectant mothers with a six-month post-return support period for those undergoing in vitro fertilisation (IVF) treatment, in partnership with the Women in Rail Empowerment (WIRE) network. 

There also have a menopause support initiative providing access to specialist doctors, which claims to be the first among train operators to introduce a kinship care policy.

Additionally, Southeastern was recognised with White Ribbon Accreditation for its commitment to creating a safer and more inclusive workplace.