Equality, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI) is a core value for many organisations. Despite the current pushback in some quarters, EDI is a key principle in creating a workplace culture of acceptance and support, furthermore, a strong EDI programme reaps countless benefits for businesses that do it well. The RailStaff Awards recognise the vital efforts of teams and individuals who are champions in this space with the Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Person or Team Award.
Freightliner has sponsored the Award for a number of years now and stepped up once again in 2025 to lend its support. Freightliner throws itself into EDI initiatives including International Women’s Day, the Big Logistics Diversity Challenge, everywoman in Transport & Logistics, and Women in Rail among others. These are valued initiatives used to share experiences and examine and discuss topics that are important to the female frontline workforce.
“The RailStaff Awards really helps to drive forward the crucial message of EDI,” said Freightliner CEO Tim Shoveller, who presented the award.
“In an industry of over 100,000 employees, it’s essential to have best people, and that means we must ensure we support people from all backgrounds, irrespective of any characteristic.
“It’s imperative that those who are best at their jobs are given the opportunity to succeed, and it’s wonderful to see the people who are making sure the railways are more diverse.”
Alstom’s Charlotte Briers went home with the prestigious award on Thursday 27 November. Charlotte has redefined inclusive leadership at Alstom through her work with the Voices of Women network. She has built an empowering community that celebrates diverse voices and drives real change.
Charlotte’s Women@Alstom Spotlight series has given visibility to female leaders, while her advocacy for female-specific PPE, period care, and inclusive policies has shaped culture across the organisation.
“I am absolutely thrilled to have won the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Award at the RailStaff Awards 2025,” Sid Charlotte.
“This recognition means so much because EDI isn’t just a workplace initiative for me – it’s a core value. Creating an environment where everyone feels respected, included, and empowered is something I care deeply about,” said Charlotte Briers, Rolling Stock Performance Lead at Alstom.
“I want to say a huge ‘thank you’ to my amazing Alstom colleagues, mentors, and allies for their support and collaboration. In particular, a huge amount of gratitude goes to the Chairs of Alstom’s four ‘Voices of’ groups – Cultural Diversity, Disability, Pride, and Women – for sharing their lived experiences and mentoring me, as we tackle important topics and drive meaningful improvements.”
Highly commended:
Armed Forces Employee Network, Northern
ManKind, LNER
Back next year
We have exciting sponsorship opportunities available for the 2026 awards.
If you’re interested in discussing this further or would like to put forward nominations from your team for future awards, please feel free to contact us by email at [email protected] or call us on 01530 816 440.
You can also find out more and view the upcoming pictures and videos from the evening by visiting our website www.RailStaffAwards.com.
