Seeing all sides of a dispute

Industrial action on the railway always poses challenges for your Railway Mission chaplains. Many see strike action in strict black and white terms, but as chaplains, we sit in the grey area between the opposing sides. Our strapline, ‘Support on Life’s Journey’ applies to everyone who works in the industry, from new starters on their first day, to the retiree on their last, from the people who clean onboard to the people who sit on the Board. I have heard a lot about the average pay in the railway industry. But consider it like this, if you lived in a small village, where the average salary was £18,000 per year, everyone might be struggling with the cost of living rising. But if Richard Branson decided to move into your village, his vast earnings would suddenly mean that the average salary of your village went from £18,000 to £200,000. Does that increased average mean that people are no longer struggling? No, of course not; and in the same way the average salary on the railway means many are paid below the average. What I feel is important is that there are continued honest and open discussions surrounding the issues. Turnover is not profit, not everyone earns the salary of a train driver, cleaners may not be employed by a train operating company, but they still work in the industry and their salaries should be taken into consideration. Our industry is changing, and change can bring fear. Fear about job losses, pay levels, the fear of new technology or working conditions. As chaplains, we are not here to take sides. But we will continue to support the emotional needs of everyone in the industry, helping them to face their fears.

Liam Johnston looks at the pros and cons of ongoing industrial action

Ultimately, the industry is changing, but my prayer is that all sides will continue to work together to find a solution to the problems we face not only on the railway but in every aspect of our society.