The Chartered Institution of Railway Operators (CIRO) has presented a cheque for £1,004 to Railway Mission following a successful fundraising challenge that brought together colleagues from across the organisation in support of the railway charity.
The funds were raised after a team of seven CIRO colleagues completed a 16-mile walk through the Peak District in June, with generous donations from individuals and organisations across the rail industry.
On 23rd July, CIRO Chief Executive Phil Sherratt and Learning and Development Manager/Wellbeing Champion Vicky Johndrow visited Railway Mission’s headquarters at Rugby railway station to formally present the donation to Liam Johnston, Executive Director, and Claire Keville, Business Manager.
As CIRO’s Wellbeing Champion, Vicky Johndrow was instrumental in identifying Railway Mission as a charity partner for the fundraising initiative, recognising the strong alignment between the charity’s work and CIRO’s own commitment to supporting the wellbeing of rail professionals. The decision also builds on an established relationship between the two organisations. In 2025, CIRO began endorsing Railway Mission’s pioneering Paideia resilience training, recognising its contribution to strengthening resilience and supporting the wellbeing of the rail workforce.
For 145 years, Railway Mission has provided confidential, independent and impartial support to railway people and their families through a nationwide network of chaplains. The charity helps individuals facing challenges including stress, bereavement, trauma, relationship difficulties, financial concerns and mental health issues, while also providing practical guidance and emotional support to help build resilience across the railway community. Its services are available to everyone working in the rail industry, regardless of faith or belief.
Supporting wellbeing and resilience is a key part of CIRO’s mission to develop the people who keep Britain’s railway moving. Alongside professional development and lifelong learning, CIRO recognises that a healthy, supported workforce is fundamental to delivering a safe, resilient and high-performing railway.
Vicky Johndrow, Learning and Development Manager and Wellbeing Champion at CIRO, said: “Railway Mission provides an invaluable source of support for people across our industry, often when they need it most. Their work aligns closely with CIRO’s commitment to developing not only skilled rail professionals, but a healthy, resilient workforce. I’m incredibly proud of everyone who took part in the challenge and grateful to all those who donated so generously. Raising more than £1,000 is a fantastic achievement, and we’re delighted to support Railway Mission in continuing its vital work.”
Liam Johnston MBE, Executive Director of Railway Mission, said: “We are incredibly grateful to everyone at CIRO who took part in this challenge, and to all those across the rail industry who supported them so generously. This donation will help Railway Mission continue providing confidential, independent and impartial care to railway people and their families, often at some of the most difficult moments in their lives. CIRO’s commitment to both professional development and personal wellbeing closely reflects our own values, and we greatly appreciate this ongoing partnership.”
The cheque presentation reflects CIRO’s ongoing commitment to supporting initiatives that strengthen both the capability and wellbeing of the railway workforce. Through learning, professional development and collaboration with organisations such as Railway Mission, CIRO continues to champion a safer, more resilient and people-focused railway.
Image credit: CIRO
