LNER and Network Rail are supporting an initiative called ‘Never Mind The Gap’, which offers a two-week stint of work experience and showcasing opportunities for women in the rail industry.

‘Never Mind The Gap’ works with Women in Rail to deliver training and placements for women looking to pursue their career after time out of following career breaks or redundancy. Due to maternity, women take more career breaks than men do, and this is one of the main drivers of the persistent gender pay gap.

Currently, fewer than one in five Network Rail employees are women.

This year, women from York and Doncaster who had previously worked in health and in media are among the participants in the ‘Never Mind the Gap’ scheme. Each has had direct one-to-one experience with rail industry colleagues working in areas that interest them. They have also received three days of training, including interview skills and writing a CV.

Participants also took a First-Class journey with LNER to London King’s Cross, where they scaled the roof of the historic station.

Over the fortnight, the group experienced work at LNER, Network Rail and Siemens in various roles, including in engineering, communications, health and wellbeing, onboard and stations, and visited LNER’s virtual reality simulator.

Anne Southby, former journalist and one of this year’s Never Mind the Gap cohort, said: “It is a fantastic programme. Like many women, I thought a career in Rail was mainly for men – but there really isn’t anything women can’t do. There are so many roles and exciting opportunities available. Everyone is so supportive, encouraging and kind. Just go for it – you never know where it will lead.”

Claire Ansley, People and Customer Experience Director at LNER, said: “There are so many fantastic career opportunities in rail, and we are delighted to be able to showcase some of the roles available. ‘Never Mind The Gap’ is a great way to share an insight into our industry and offers a perfect opportunity for women who are returning from a career break, or who simply want to pursue new challenges.”

Sarah Birtles, Network Rail’s Head of Customer & Station Transformation and Chair of Women in Rail Yorkshire, said: “This initiative is so important in enabling women to experience the variety career opportunities available to them in the rail industry. A career in rail is for everyone and it is great to be able to work alongside LNER on this project, to empower women and equip them with new skills as they take a fresh step in their careers.”