South Western Railway has named Class 450 450100 “Transport Benevolent Fund CIO” to mark the charitable organisation’s centenary in a ceremony at London Waterloo station.

The Transport Benevolent Fund CIO was established in 1923 by the predecessor of Transport for London in a bid to support the dependents of those who fought in the First World War.

Since its beginnings, the impressive organisation has continued its support covering all public transport workers in Great Britain, supporting them during times of need, hardship and distress. The longstanding fund sees members contribute £1.25 each week and enables themselves, partners and dependent children with the ability to access an array of health, welfare and financial support, including:

• Complementary therapies
• Medical assistance
• Convalescence
• Legal advice
• Bereavement grants.

South Western Railway has the most members of the Transport Benevolent Fund across all rail operators, with approximately 2,600 colleagues taking part.

The train’s new name was unveiled at the ceremony today (27th July) by Managing Director of South Western Railway, Claire Mann, Chair of Transport Benevolent Fund, Rob Jones, and Chair of Network Rail and Patron of Transport Benevolent Fund, Lord Hendy. The special event was also attended by colleagues of South Western Railway alongside representatives of both the Transport Benevolent Fund and the rail industry.

Claire Mann, Managing Director of South Western Railway, commented: “We’re proud to celebrate the fantastic work the TBF does providing advice and support to people during difficult periods in their lives. That SWR has more members than any other operator shows the generosity and community spirit of so many of our colleagues.”

“One of our values as an organisation is that we are supportive of each other, and membership of the TBF is a wonderful example of that. We hope this TBF named train will be a reminder of the good that comes from putting our values into action.”

Rob Jones, Chair of Transport Benevolent Fund CIO, commented: “This is a great occasion for the TBF, especially as we celebrate the Fund’s centenary. I thank the SWR team and Lord Hendy for their support in facilitating this event and for the opportunity to promote the good work of the charity.”

“In my role as TBF Chair, I am extremely proud of the Fund’s work in providing help and support to those members who find themselves in times of need and hardship. We are dedicated to helping to keep the wheels of the transport industry turning by helping those employees get back on their feet.”

Peter, Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill CBE, Chair of Network Rail and Patron of Transport Benevolent Fund CIO, commented:

“As a Patron of the Transport Benevolent Fund, I am proud to celebrate their 100th anniversary. The TBF is the best example of how the transport community comes together to look after each other in times of need.”

“Over the last century, the fund has supported thousands of staff and their families through difficult times, including recently when the fund was at the forefront of the fight against COVID. The naming of a train in honour of this essential work is a fitting and appropriate tribute.”