Southeast Communities Rail Partnership (SCRP) is delighted to announce that it has once again been successfully reaccredited by Community Rail Network. This recognises its continued commitment to connecting communities, supporting sustainable travel and delivering positive social, economic and environmental benefits across the region.
The reaccreditation, awarded by the Department of Transport, recognises the partnership’s ongoing success in delivering the Community Rail Development Strategy and the principles of community rail. It provides assurance that SCRP continues to operate to nationally recognised standard while remaining focused on delivering local benefits.
Reaccreditation is awarded to community rail partnerships that demonstrate high standards of governance, community engagement and project delivery. It reflects the strength of SCRP’s work in bringing together the rail industry, local authorities, businesses, schools, community groups and volunteers to make railways more accessible, welcoming and relevant to the communities they serve. Praise was given for the strength of community engagement, variety of projects and the excellent administration.
Working across Sussex, Kent, Surrey, Berkshire, and London Boroughs of Hounslow and Richmond, SCRP delivers a wide range of initiatives that go far beyond promoting train travel. Projects include education programmes that help thousands of young people learn about safe and confident travel, station adoption schemes that transform stations into attractive community spaces, accessibility improvements, heritage projects, arts and culture initiatives, and activities that encourage people to choose more sustainable ways to travel.
The partnership also works closely with local organisations to tackle social isolation, support local tourism and businesses, improve access to employment and education, and encourage healthier, greener journeys. By listening to local communities and responding to their needs, SCRP helps ensure the railway plays an active role in supporting the places it serves.
Tim Barkley, Chair of Southeast Communities Rail Partnership said:
“We are proud to have achieved reaccreditation, which recognises the dedication of our staff, volunteers, partners and communities. Community rail is about much more than trains – it’s about creating opportunities, bringing people together and helping the railway make a positive difference to everyday lives. We look forward to continuing to build strong partnerships and developing projects that benefit communities across our network.”
As SCRP looks to the future, it remains committed to working collaboratively with partners and communities to create a railway that is welcoming, inclusive and valued by everyone it serves.
