As we approach International Women’s Day 2025, we take a look at how Southeastern is taking meaningful action to elevate, empower, and support women within the workplace.

For years, the railway industry has been seen as a male-dominated field, with train driving in particular viewed as a career path for men. But times are changing, and Southeastern is at the forefront of that transformation.

With continued improvements in gender balance and company-wide initiatives supporting women at every stage of their careers, Southeastern is proving that rail is a place where women can thrive.

The company has long been an advocate for women in rail. In 2020, Southeastern made history by running the UK’s first all-female operated train service — a symbolic moment that highlighted its commitment to gender equality in the sector. But it hasn’t stopped there. Today, the organisation continues to break barriers, not just by increasing the number of women across the business but by fostering a workplace where women are supported from recruitment through to long-term career development.

Grace, one of Southeastern’s engineers.

Southeastern is one of the UK’s biggest and busiest commuter railways, carrying more than 500,000 passengers per day from Kent and East Sussex into five major London terminals. With over 4,000 employees, the company is continually improving its HR policies, enhancing family friendly leave, refining gender identity guidance, and working with their six colleague network groups to drive change.

Its pioneering initiatives provide real, tangible support for women, addressing critical issues from women’s reproductive health to menopause awareness. Some of its work include:

Trailblazing women in leadership apprenticeships 

Southeastern are leading the way in railway apprenticeships with Level 5 and Level 7 women in leadership programmes, tailored to address the unique challenges women face — including imposter syndrome and the struggle to have their voices heard.

The emphasis on empowering women and celebrating women in leadership has equipped emerging leaders with the tools they need to succeed, ensuring a pipeline of diverse talent that will continue to lead Southeastern into the future.

Explore the ‘Day in the life’ film of Jane, a driver at Southeastern.

Senior female leaders group coaching programme

In a forward-thinking first to supporting women in leadership, Southeastern launched a bespoke programme personally sponsored by their People and Commercial Directors. This initiative invited 100 per cent of women in senior management roles to participate, providing them with the tools and insights necessary to excel in their careers. Incorporating action learning, the program focused on empowering women to overcome challenges and unlock their full potential.

Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with participants reporting increased confidence and a heightened sense of their ability to achieve their professional goals. This tailored program is helping women break through barriers, foster leadership skills, and ultimately realise their full potential.

Mentors for underrepresented groups

In collaboration with the industry group ‘Rail Unites for Inclusion’ Southeastern participated in pioneering a learning and mentoring program designed to offer guidance and support to colleagues from underrepresented groups. By connecting senior leaders with individuals from diverse backgrounds, Southeastern are nurturing the next generation of leaders in the industry. This initiative is already showing exceptional results, creating a more equitable leadership environment within the rail sector.

Christianah, a conductor at Southeastern

New expectant mothers’ safety standard

In partnership with colleague network group WIRE (Women in Rail Empowerment), Southeastern implemented a new standard and guideline that goes beyond legal requirements, offering a unique six month post return support period for mothers and those undergoing IVF treatment. This innovative approach is a shining example of how they prioritise the wellbeing and continued professional development of women in their workforce.

Innovative menopause support

This initiative arose from regular menopause drop in sessions at work, where Southeastern heard there were gaps in the support provided by general healthcare practitioners. Recognising the need for more specialised support, they partnered with an external company to offer appointments with menopause specialist doctors. This tailored support, is setting a new standard for workplace health and wellbeing, ensuring that women receive the medical and emotional care they need during this critical time in their lives.

Kinship care

Southeastern are the first train operating company to support colleagues who become Kinship Carers. Kinship care is when a child lives with a relative or close family friend. The new policy and leave was introduced following feedback from a colleague who became a kinship carer. It’s estimated that there are more than 180,000 children being raised in kinship care in England.

Commitment to ending violence against women

The organisation achieved White Ribbon Accreditation, a testament to their ongoing commitment to combating violence against women. By fostering a safe and supportive workplace culture and engaging with our community and stakeholders, Southeastern are actively working towards a future free from violence and discrimination.

Opening doors for the next generation

Attracting and inspiring the next generation to consider a career in rail is central to Southeastern’s mission. A new survey revealed that Gen Z is moving away from the dreaded “hustle culture” in favour of secure, long-term jobs. Prioritising climate change, travel, and roles that don’t involve sitting at a desk all day topped their list of priorities.

As one of the least-polluting modes of mass transportation, the rail industry offers young people the opportunity to be part of a greener future. And with 82% of Southeastern’s roles being non-desk-based, the company offers a range of opportunities for those seeking more dynamic careers.

Steve Foster, People Director at Southeastern, said: “We are working hard to change the perceptions around rail and that means doing everything we can to attract young people to choose a career in rail’s exciting, digital and green future.”

This International Women’s Day, Southeastern stands as a shining example of how businesses can ‘accelerate action’ (the theme for IWD 2025) to support and empower women in the workplace. By addressing real challenges, prioritising career wellbeing, offering genuine support, and fostering an inclusive culture, it is not only transforming its workforce but setting a precedent for the rail industry and beyond.

Explore the range of opportunities and meaningful careers you can find at Southeastern Railway here.