Merseyrail has been awarded accredited status under the Liverpool City Region Fair Employment Charter, marking a significant milestone in the operator’s commitment to fair, inclusive and healthy working practices.
Only a small number of organisations across the city region have reached accredited level so far, placing Merseyrail among a select group helping to raise employment standards and set the benchmark for good work locally. The Charter is designed to challenge employers to go further on fair pay, wellbeing, inclusion and workforce engagement, with accreditation recognising those delivering real impact rather than simply strong intent.
To secure accredited status, Merseyrail was required to demonstrate tangible progress across four core themes: Fair, Just, Inclusive and Healthy. An independent assessment panel reviewed more than 40 pieces of supporting evidence, including internal policies, colleague case studies and practical examples from across the business. Crucially, the panel looked beyond written commitments to understand how these principles are being embedded day‑to‑day and the difference they are making to employees.
James Smith, HR Director at Merseyrail, said:
“We are incredibly proud to be recognised as an accredited fair employer. This reflects the values our colleagues bring to work every day and the part they play in creating a workplace that is fair, supportive and inclusive. Looking after our people is not a tick box exercise, it’s a fundamental part of what makes Merseyrail a great place to work.”
The accreditation reinforces Merseyrail’s view that investing in its workforce directly supports better outcomes for passengers and strengthens the organisation’s contribution to the wider Liverpool City Region. By fostering a culture where people feel valued, supported and heard, the operator believes it is better equipped to deliver a reliable, customer‑focused railway while playing an active role in regional social value.
Achieving accredited status also provides independent assurance that Merseyrail is moving in the right direction. It highlights how the everyday actions of colleagues across the network are combining to create meaningful, lasting change, both within the organisation and beyond.
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