Photography exhibition launched at Manchester Victoria

The individuals are being celebrated as part of TPE’s second annual Week of Inclusion, and each have their own unique stories, from living with endometriosis to being autistic, having ADHD, or being part of the LGBTQ+ community.

The exhibition, which runs until Sunday, February 2, also serves as an open invitation to anyone considering a career in the rail industry, regardless of their background, to apply.

The photographs feature workers such as Shannon Cassidy, a trainee driver from Liverpool, who has seen first-hand how the company is committed to fostering equality in roles that have traditionally been male-dominated.

Shannon has detailed how TPE’s dedication to becoming an Endometriosis Friendly Employer has been a significant step forward in acknowledging and accommodating the needs of women like her.

Ben McGowan, a conductor instructor based at Liverpool, who is autistic and has ADHD is also featured. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, Ben has shared how inclusion is not merely a concept but a deeply meaningful part of his everyday life, and at TPE, he has discovered a workplace where he truly feels a sense of belonging.

Nicola Buckley, people director for TPE, said: “We’re incredibly proud to be making progress in making our business more inclusive, and we will continue to strive to make sure everyone that works here feels sense of belonging and that every individual, of every background and culture, feels heard and celebrated.

“The launch of this new installation is not only a celebration of our diverse workforce, but a call out to anyone who is considering a role in the rail industry to apply, whatever background they may have.

“It took the majority of the past 200 years to create change, but there’s still more work to be done, at both TPE and within the industry to inspire more women and more people from diverse backgrounds to join the rail sector.”

Since TPE’s first Week of Inclusion in January last year, the rail provider has made significant progress, applicants from ethnic groups has risen to 30%%, LGBTQ+ colleagues now comprise of 10%, exceeding the census figure of 3.2%.

Since April of last year, 26% of hires and 33% of international promotions have been women, highlighting that progress is beginning to accelerate.

Five employee networking groups have also been introduced in the last 18 months, groups include the LGBTQ+ Networking Group, the Neurodiversity Network, Women at TPE, Military Veterans, and Young Rail Professionals at TPE, providing dedicated spaces for colleagues to connect, share experiences, and drive positive change within the organisation.

To experience the exhibition, visit Manchester Victoria Station, near Victoria Tap.

Those interested in joining TPE should visit the vacancies page, or try TPE’s new virtual work experience scheme.