For many people, catching a train is something they barely think about. But for others, it can be a daunting experience.
That’s why the volunteers behind the Friends of Hindley Station are being celebrated for the difference they’re making to people’s lives, helping those with additional needs gain the confidence to travel independently while creating stronger community connections along the way.
The group was recognised during Volunteers’ Week when representatives from Community Rail Network visited Hindley station on Wednesday 3 June, to see first-hand the work being carried out by local volunteers.
Working alongside South East Lancashire Community Rail Partnership, Northern, Transport for Greater Manchester and a range of local organisations, the volunteer-led group is helping make rail travel more welcoming, accessible and inclusive for everyone.
A key part of that work is a partnership with Thrive CIC, which supports people with additional needs. Through the project, volunteers are helping people overcome barriers to travel, build confidence and access opportunities that may have previously felt out of reach.
The visit also gave guests the chance to see major improvements currently taking place at the station. Network Rail’s Access for All scheme is bringing lifts and step-free access to Hindley station, making journeys easier for passengers with mobility needs, parents with pushchairs and anyone who finds stairs difficult.
The event formed part of Community Rail Week, which runs from June 1 to June 7. This year’s theme, “Journeys for All”, highlights the work being done across the country to ensure the railway is accessible to everyone, regardless of age, ability or background.
Jools Townsend, chief executive of Community Rail Network, praised the volunteers for the impact they are having in the community.
She said: “Community Rail Week celebrates the people who make our railways more welcoming, inclusive and connected to the communities they serve, and the volunteers at Hindley station are a fantastic example of that work in action.
“Through their dedication, they’re helping people build confidence, reduce loneliness and feel more connected to both their railway and their community. Their partnership work, including supporting people with additional needs, demonstrates how community rail can make a real difference to people’s lives.”
Friends of Hindley Station volunteer Sheila Davidson said the group was proud to showcase the work being carried out by volunteers.
She said: “We’re incredibly proud to be hosting this event as part of Community Rail Week and to showcase the positive impact our volunteers have within the community.
“As a volunteer-led group, we work closely with partners and fellow volunteers across Greater Manchester and beyond, sharing ideas, offering support and encouraging more people to get involved. By working together, we can continue to make our railway more welcoming, inclusive and connected for everyone.”
Dan Mann, director of industry operations at Rail Delivery Group, said:
“We are proud to support Community Rail Week and celebrate the inspiring work of community rail partnerships, station volunteers and local organisations who are helping to break down barriers and create journeys for all.”
Around half of all railway stations across Britain are now supported by community rail station volunteer groups, with volunteers playing an increasingly important role in connecting railways with the communities they serve.
At Hindley, that work is helping ensure more people feel confident stepping onto a train and exploring opportunities beyond their doorstep.
