SAFETY
Welcome
Adam Jones is away on annual leave, so I am delighted to have the opportunity to write to you on a topic close to my heart.
Why raise a close call?
If there are no injuries in the workplace, we have nothing to measure or compare, and what are we missing?
Just because we have not had any accidents it does not mean that the workplace is safe or that our health and safety performance is good.
It may be that our reporting culture or reporting system is not good and hiding the truth.
You may be familiar with signs on some worksites that proclaim
“X days since the last accident”, or “X injury free days”
Who wants to be the first person to report something or someone unsafe? Not many, it would take a brave person to break these badges of honour.
So, in these cases is everything fine? Well, not necessarily.
An accident-free workplace may not be safe, it may have been lucky; often whether there is an accident, or not is often luck, or not, with the timing.
We need to use indicators for the potential of an accident.
This is why we ask you to report close calls otherwise known elsewhere as an improvement opportunity.
As many of you know, a close call is something or someone unsafe that has the potential to cause a future accident. This is why it is so important that we encourage everyone to report things however small, so that we may try and do something about it.
No action is a decision made by someone, so please do not take a decision to ignore things.
Please report otherwise we will never know and not be able to try and change things for the good of everyone.
Thank you.
Gareth Morris
Group Director, Health, Safety, Quality and Environmental Compliance
Work safe, Home Safe
What do we mean by Work Safe, Home Safe?
We mean that we are fit and prepared for work We work safely with our colleagues and follow the rules We go home in a safe condition, free from harm
How do we go about it?
We follow 5 Brilliant Basics
1.Be fit and ready for work, physically and mentally
2 Always follow the rules – no short cuts
3 If unsure, Take Five, stop work and ask
4 If anything is unsafe, Take Five, stop work and report
5 Treat each day like Day 1, do not be complacent
What are we doing behind the scenes to make us successful at what we do?
1 We put people at the centre of what we do
2 We analyse mistakes very rigorously
3 We try to create an open atmosphere where everyone can speak up
4.We are willing to fix what is wrong if it is under our control
5.We relentlessly pursue new work and new opportunities
6 We never give in to complacency
Head of Safety
Adam Jones
Adam Jones@vital uk com
07717 306 852
Health and Safety Champion
Leon Richards
Leon Richards@vital uk com
My Idea
How would you improve safety?
What are your ideas for innovation?
What would you change?
To be in with the chance to with £100 worth of gift vouchers, email us your ideas at:
Mental health & wellbeing
Supporting Mental Health Awareness Month
In support of Mental Health Awareness Month, we invited colleagues to take the opportunity to check in on their physical and mental wellbeing in a friendly, confidential setting We encouraged everyone to take part it’s a simple way to prioritise your health, learn more about your wellbeing, and access professional guidance that supports both body and mind.
Health Check Point Awareness Day: Supporting Proactive Wellbeing
Our Health Check Point Awareness Day helps individuals gain a clearer understanding of their current health and identify potential concerns early before they develop into more serious conditions
After completing the checks, each attendee receives a personalised health report highlighting areas for improvement, along with practical lifestyle guidance to help bring results closer to a healthier range
What’s included in the checks:
Blood pressure and resting heart rate
Body fat percentage
Visceral fat rating (fat around internal organs)
Body water score
Height and BMI
Metabolic rate
Metabolic age
These sessions are designed to make health awareness accessible, supportive, and actionable, empowering everyone to take proactive steps toward better wellbeing
Recognition award
Recognition Award – Celebrating Mo’s Outstanding Effort
We’re delighted to recognise Mohamed Bashir Mohamed (Mo) for his exceptional dedication, professionalism, and positive attitude Mo consistently goes above and beyond in his role, earning praise from colleagues and passengers alike for his hard work and reliability
Recently, Mo demonstrated incredible composure and compassion during an incident at Tipton Train Station When an elderly passenger collapsed and suffered a head injury, Mo immediately took control of the situation contacting emergency services, retrieving a first aid kit, and using his training to manage the bleeding and keep the passenger stable until help arrived.
His quick thinking and calm presence provided vital reassurance to both the injured passenger and his wife Station staff and the British Transport Police commended Mo for his swift response and professionalism, highlighting how his actions made a real difference that day
As a token of appreciation, Mo will receive a Recognition Award and a voucher in celebration of his exemplary service His dedication is a shining example of the care and commitment that define our team Well done, Mo thank you for all that you do!
RailStaff Nominations
Celebrating Heroism: FridayAshwobie Nominated for RailStaffAward
One of our Safeguarding Patrollers, Friday, has been nominated for a RailStaffAward for his life-saving intervention earlier this year
In June, Friday engaged with a vulnerable young woman at Hyndland Train Station Through his calm, compassionate approach, he helped her leave the station safely and feel supported Just two days later, she returned with her mother to thank him personally, revealing that his kindness had prevented her from taking her own life She is now reconnecting with her family and receiving ongoing mental health support Friday’s actions highlight the profound impact of Safeguarding Patrollers often unseen, but vital His empathy, dedication, and professionalism demonstrate the life-changing difference one individual can make every day
Vital Team Recognised forVolunteer Support on SVR Bridge Rebuild
We’re proud to share that Ian Connor,Josh Southall,Amy Smith, and five Birmingham operatives were part of a remarkable volunteer initiative recently nominated for a Rail StaffAward As a team,Vital contributed over 165 volunteer hours to help restore the Severn Valley Railway (SVR) after a catastrophic landslip at Mor Brook Bridge in early 2025 The collapse left the heritage line unable to operate its full 16-mile service, threatening revenue and the railway’s future Through exceptional cross-industry collaboration, including main line companies, contractors, and volunteers, the project overcame engineering, environmental, and logistical challenges A 50-strong volunteer workforce, nicknamed the “Orange Army VolunteerAll-Stars”, alongside innovative planning and coordination, ensured the bridge was rebuilt in just six months The line reopened with the iconic Flying Scotsman, securing SVR’s operations and delighting the community Vital’s contribution highlights the power of teamwork, dedication, and industry-wide support in delivering lasting impact for heritage rail and the wider rail community
Good luck to all who have been nominated! The RailStaffAwards will take place on the 25 November 2025 th
FridayAshwobie
Safety First: The real cost of speeding and dangerous driving in companyvehicles
At Vital, safety is one of our top priorities not only for the well-being of our employees but also for the communities we serve and represent When you ’ re behind the wheel of a company-issued vehicle, you ’ re not just driving a car or a van you ’ re carrying the company ’ s reputation, trust, and commitment to safety with you
Unfortunately, there have been recent instances and reports of speeding and risky driving behaviour involving company vehicles We would like to take this opportunity to remind all employees of the serious implications of such actions and to reiterate the importance of driving safely and responsibly Why It Matters
1. Safety First,Always
Speeding and aggressive driving significantly increase the likelihood of incidents What might seem like "just a few minutes saved" can quickly turn into a life-altering event for you, other drivers, or pedestrians
2. Legal and Financial Consequences
Traffic violations, incidents, and reckless driving can lead to fines, increased insurance costs, and even legal liability for both the driver and the company In some cases, it may also result in the loss of driving privileges, as well as disciplinary action
3. Protecting Our Brand
Our vehicles are clearly marked and identifiable How we drive reflects directly on our company ’ s image
Unsafe behaviour on the road can damage our reputation with clients and partners, and the general public
4. Fleet Maintenance and Longevity
Dangerous driving habits like hard braking, aggressive acceleration, and speeding also contribute to unnecessary wear and tear on our vehicles, increasing maintenance and fuel costs
What We Expect from Every Driver
Obey all traffic laws at all times, including speed limits and local road regulations Avoid distractions such as using devices, eating, or adjusting navigation while driving Drive defensively, not aggressively Stay calm and courteous, even in stressful situations Report any incidents or violations involving company vehicles immediately.
A Shared Responsibility
Each of us plays a critical role in keeping our roads safe. We should all commit to driving responsibly and making safety a non-negotiable part of our daily routine
If you have any questions about our vehicle policies or would like to suggest improvements to our driver safety programs, please contact our Fleet Team fleet@vital uk com
Stay safe, drive smart, and protect what matters
Tips for quitting smoking
Stoptober is an annual campaign running every October calling on smokers to join millions of others who have quit successfully
Over 5 million adults in England still smoke Smoking causes 75,000 deaths a year, making it the biggest cause of preventable illness and death Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your health Here are some tips on how to stop
1 Set a Date and Stick to It
Choose a quit date within the next two weeks Too far away and your motivation may stall, too soon and you might not feel prepared
Mark it in your calendar and prepare by gradually reducing cigarettes, clearing ashtrays and lighters. Tell your friends and family so they can support you.
2. Write Down Your Reasons for Quitting
People stop smoking for a number of reasons List your personal motivations for quitting These could include:
Health benefits
Financial savings
Protecting loved ones from second-hand smoke
Being free of addiction
Not smelling like tobacco smoke
Keep this list handy (like on your phone or on the fridge) for whenever cravings strike
3. Set Yourself Up for Success
Identify your triggers for smoking a cigarette (stress, alcohol, boredom) and plan alternatives Stock up on healthy snacks, sugar-free chewing gum or mints, and drinking water
You could try changing your routine For example, if you always smoke with your morning coffee, try tea instead or take your coffee on a walk
4 Use Nicotine Replacement Therapy
Try nicotine replacement therapies (NRT) such as patches, gum, lozenges, inhalators or nasal sprays These help reduce nicotine withdrawal symptoms by delivering controlled doses of nicotine without harmful smoke toxins
Combining a patch with gum or lozenges can be particularly effective
5. Try Prescription Medication if You Need More Help
If NRT alone doesn’t do the trick, try stop smoking treatments on prescription. Popular options include Champix (varenicline), Zyban (bupropion) and cytisine. These can ease cravings and withdrawal by working on your brain’s nicotine receptors Champix has shown to be more effective than using just one NRT (e g a patch or gum) However, it won’t be much more effective than using a combination of more than one NRT product (e g using a patch and gum)
You’ll need to see your GP for these, but they can roughly double your chances of quitting
6 ConsiderVaping as Harm Reduction
For smokers who’ve struggled with other methods, switching completely to regulated e-cigarettes may help They can give the same feeling as smoking, and you can control the amount of nicotine you ’ re taking in
The goal is to stop smoking entirely. So avoid “dual-use” (vaping and smoking) and aim to taper off vaping over time. Research has found that vaping is less harmful than smoking. But it still has health risks and its long-term effects are still unknown.
7.Get Free Support from NHS Stop Smoking Services
Local NHS stop smoking services offer face-to-face, phone or online one-to-one support This is often alongside free or discounted NRT and Champix
Trained advisers can help you map out your quit plan,tackle tricky moments and keep you on track
8.DistractYourself
When a craving hits,try the 4 Ds:
Delay: Wait five minutes; cravings pass soon enough
Drink water: Sipping slowly can help ease tension
Deep breathing: Take five slow, mindful breaths
Do something else: Text a friend, do a quick chore or take a brisk walk
9.Replace the Habit with a HealthierOne
Swap the smoking habit with a more positive one You could take up a new sport or learn a new instrument Set a goal and work towards it Not only will it distract you, but it will also help you build confidence and new, healthier routines
10 Practice the“Ride theWave”Technique
Cravings come in waves They swell, peak and then fade Rather than fighting them head-on, picture each urge as a wave you can surf Breathe deeply, acknowledge the feeling, and wait for it to subside
11 Have a Relapse Plan
Slips happen Up to 70% of quit attempts see a relapse in the first six months So don’t beat yourself up if this happens Treat any slip as a learning curve and pinpoint what triggered you Sharpen your coping strategies, and reset your quit date if you need Lean on extra support if you ’ re finding it tough
12.SaveYourCigarette Moneyand CelebrateYourProgress
One major perk of quitting smoking is saving money. So work out how much you ’ re saving. If a pack costs £10 and you smoke a pack a day,that’s £70 saved each week Pop that money into a “quit fund” jar or savings pot Treat yourself at key milestones like one week, one month, six months smoke-free with your favourite treat, a new book or a day out
Remember:You Can DoThis
Quitting smoking is tough,but doable with the right plan,support and mindset. Everysmoke-free dayis a victory.
Reach out to friends,family,NHS advisers orfellow ex-smokers whenyou need a boost.You’ve got the strength to beat nicotine and reclaimyourhealth.Source: NHS
Safety alerts
Please be vigilant in keeping all PPE secure and out of sight when not in use To reduce the risk of theft, ensure PPE and work equipment are stored in the boot of cars or the rear of vans where visibility is significantly reduced.Avoid leaving items visible through windows at any time.Your cooperation helps protect valuable equipment and prevents unnecessary loss or delays to work.
Charities & support services
Ifyou or someone you know is struggling,there are many organisations that offer free, confidential support:
Andy’s Man Club – A men’s mental health support group providing peer-to-peer conversations in a safe space.
Lighthouse Charity – Supporting the mental health and well-being of construction and rail workers. Call UK: 0345 605 1956, ROI: 1800 939 122, ortext HARD HATto 85258 (UK) or 50808 (ROI).
Samaritans – 24/7 helpline offering emotional support forthose in distress: Call 116 123.
Mind – Mental health charity providing advice and support forthose experiencing difficulties. Get urgent help
CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) – Focused on suicide prevention, particularly in men: Call 0800 58 58 58.
Rethink Mental Illness – Offering advice, services, and support groups forthose living with mental illness.
Mental health matters just as much as physical health. Ifyou are struggling, know that help is available, and you are not alone.Take the first step—talkto someone, reach out to a support group, or seek professional advice. Small steps can lead to big changes in yourwell-being.
Office Locations
Manchester (Head Office)
T: 0161 836 7000
E: HeadOffice@vital uk com
The Mill, South Hall Street, off Ordsall Lane, Salford, Manchester, M5 4TP
Bellshill
T: 01698 840 950
E: BellshillRail@vital uk com
10 James Street, Righead Industrial Estate, Bellshill, Lanarkshire
ML4 3LU
Crewe T: 01270 906 130
E: Crewe@vital uk com
6 Solway Court Crewe Business Park Crewe, Cheshire, CW1 6LD
Doncaster DNR
T: 01302 496 550
E: ThorpeHouse@vital uk com
Thorpe House, Sidings Court Lakeside, Doncaster
DN4 5HZ
Abercynon T: 01443 809 950
E: Abercynon@vital uk com
G16/17 Ty Cynon, Navigation Park, Abercynon, CF45 4SN
Birmingham T: 0121 809 3010
E: Birminghamrail@vital uk com
Olton Wharf
7-9 Richard Road Solihull West Midlands B92 7RN
Derby
T: 01332 982 470
E: Derby@vital uk com
Ground Floor, Room 30 Derwent House, RTC Business Park, Derby, DE24 8UP
Farnham T: 01252 964 020
E: Farnham@vital uk com
Unit 10, Guildford Road Trading Estate, Farnham, Surrey, GU9 9PZ
Ashford T: 01233 344 6443
E: Ashford@vital uk com
Eurogate Business Park Ashford TN24 8XW
Bristol
T: 01172 332 256
E: Pmwestern@vital uk com
Regency House, Bonville Road, Brislington, Bristol, BS45QH
Doncaster
T: 01302 244450
E: Doncasterrail@vital uk com
First Floor Offices, Carr House, Heavens Walk, Doncaster, DN4 5HZ
London
T: 0203 963 5080
E: CanningTown@vital uk com
Unit 10, Canning Town Business Park, Stephenson Street, London, E16 4SA
