Staffing Shortages Could Impact Christmas Train Services

Concerns have been raised by the government that staffing deficits might impact Christmas train operations, according to the rail minister. Lord Hendy stated the transport department intends to “keep a close watch on staffing” during the holiday season. Further disruptions could be worsened by new industrial action, as Avanti West Coast train managers have voted for a three-day strike during the festive period. The rail industry has experienced challenges in recruitment, leading to train operating companies relying on employees volunteering for additional paid shifts, especially during peak times. An official from the Department for Transport informed MPs that the railway system typically demonstrates an “over-reliant on overtime working” for its train crew, particularly near Christmas. Sunday working is not a contractual obligation for numerous train drivers and other crew members; consequently, certain operators provide additional paid shifts to maintain service operation. The Rail, Maritime and Transport (RMT) union announced on Tuesday that industrial action is planned for Avanti services on 22, 23, and 29 December, following its rejection of the train company’s proposed “rest day working arrangements”. A standard work week for train managers is 41 hours, but due to personnel deficits, they may be requested to work on their scheduled days off. Nevertheless, the RMT has characterized the existing arrangements as “unacceptable,” with approximately 300 train managers anticipated to participate in the walkout. Avanti West Coast stated that passengers should anticipate “significant disruption” during what it termed “our busiest and most important” period of the year. This announcement came several weeks after RMT members employed by various other rail companies agreed to a 4.75% pay increase for the previous financial year and a 4.5% rise for 2024-25. Conversely, employees at Northern recently declined the company’s improved four-month pay proposal for conductors who work on Sundays. Consequently, the company indicated that passengers might experience service disruptions throughout December. Lord Hendy informed MPs on the Commons Transport Committee of concerns that the closure of certain railway sections over Christmas could increase strain on other parts of the network. The UK’s rail network ceases operations entirely each year on Christmas Day, with restricted services available on Boxing Day. Numerous routes are scheduled for extended closures during the holiday season as Network Rail, the owner and maintainer of the railways, will be conducting engineering work. Lord Hendy, who served as chairman of Network Rail from 2015 until his appointment to the Labour government, commented: “Christmas is a good time to do major engineering work, because the demand is lower over several days.” Network Rail previously indicated that passenger volumes at significant stations generally decrease by 50 to 60% during the week spanning Christmas Day and the new year, in contrast to a typical week in November or early December.