Today (Wednesday 4 December), Railway 200 announced its charity partnerships for the 200th anniversary of the modern railway.
Four rail charities are joining forces for the first time and teaming up with Alzheimer’s Research UK to raise at least £200,000 to support their combined work.
Railway 200 is a cross-industry campaign created to celebrate this historic milestone. Working to protect rail memories for the future, the campaign will support Alzheimer’s Research UK, Railway Mission, Railway Benefit Fund, Railway Children, and Transport Benevolent Fund CIO.
Working collaboratively, the charities will host a variety of anniversary-related activities and events throughout 2025 to raise funds for their good causes.
Announcing the unique charity partnership, Emma Robertson, Programme Manager for Railway 200, said: “Next year’s bicentenary is about bringing people together to celebrate rail’s role in national life and its amazing railway family.
“Nostalgia plays a big part in rail’s story. We will be working with Alzheimer’s Research UK and our rail charity partners to build a better future, helping to protect rail memories for everyone, forever.”
Philip Dunn, Executive Director at Alzheimer’s Research UK, commented:
“Alzheimer’s Research UK is proud to join Railway 200 to celebrate rail’s rich history and work together to protect treasured memories.“This is also a personally meaningful partnership for me as I was born and raised in Shildon, County Durham, which is part of the Stockton and Darlington Railway route. My hometown has a strong connection to the railway, so I have many fond childhood memories that link back to it.
“Sadly, dementia puts precious memories like these at risk. We’re working to change this and we’re thankful to Railway 200 for standing with us for a cure.”
Liam Johnston from Railway Mission said: “As a charity dedicated to the well-being of railway staff, supporting the Railway 200 celebrations is a way to honour the legacy of the industry that has shaped communities for two centuries. It’s an opportunity to reflect on the vital role railways play in connecting people and places, while continuing our mission of providing care and support to those who keep this essential service running.”
Jo Kaye for the Railway Benefit Fund commented: “Railway Benefit Fund’s support for Railway 200 is a fitting tribute to the industry’s rich history and the countless individuals who have devoted their lives to its success. As a charity dedicated to supporting all railway people across the UK, this celebration is an opportunity to honour their contributions, reflect on the industry’s lasting impact on communities, and reinforce our commitment to providing ongoing financial support to the wider railway family.”
Rob Capener from Railway Children said: “Railway Children has such a special relationship with the UK rail industry, without which we would not have been able to change as many young lives as we have over the years.
Coming together to raise funds for five vital causes is such a fitting way to celebrate this incredible milestone for the industry and we are so appreciative of all the support.”
John Sheehy from the Transport Benevolent Fund CIO, added: “In times of need, hardship and distress, we support public transport employees, both working and retired, and offer financial and medical benefits. Next year’s rail anniversary provides the perfect platform to raise awareness of our vital work and that of our charity partners.”
To contribute to the charity partnership, visit the JustGiving page.