We've all experienced the frustration of train strikes—those unexpected disruptions that throw our daily commute into disarray. Around 20,000 rail workers will walk out on Thursday 20 July, Saturday 22 July and Saturday 29 July. With 14 rail companies affected, the strikes will hit businesses and commuters across the country.
For food production, logistics and manufacturing businesses, any loss in productivity can have a significant impact on your company’s bottom line. With this in mind, what can be done to support your employees to get to work during strike action?
Effective Communication
Establish clear lines of communication with your employees during train strikes. Utilise email, messaging apps, and notice boards to inform them about the availability and schedules of any transport.
Ensure they have all the necessary information to plan their journeys in advance, reducing anxiety and ensuring a smooth transition to the alternative transportation mode.
The Power of Shared Shuttle Buses
Shared shuttle buses offer a practical solution to mitigate disruption caused by train strikes. By implementing a service, your business can keep operations running smoothly and demonstrate a commitment to employee well-being. Here's how you can make the most of a shuttle bus service during train strikes:
Fully managed, flexible service
Tell us where and when - we will do the rest. Our team will create routes, partner with a vetted transport provider and help launch the service with your staff. From the initial call to the first trip, we can set up a shuttle service quickly and easily.
Strategic Pickup Locations
We’ll help you choose easily-accessible pickup locations, ideally near public transport hubs or within reasonable walking distances from residential areas. This ensures convenience and encourages employees to use the shuttle service rather than struggle with alternative transport arrangements.
Reliable and Efficient Service
Partner with reputable shuttle bus providers who can offer a reliable and efficient service. Consider factors such as punctuality, well-maintained vehicles, and professional drivers. By providing a high-quality shuttle service, you demonstrate your commitment to employee satisfaction and foster a positive work environment.
Beyond Train Strikes: Supporting employees with workplace transport
In the UK, many workers rely solely on public transport to reach their workplaces. Fewer young people are learning to drive - citing the cost of lessons, lower wages and the rising costs of car ownership.
Train strikes create a multitude of difficulties for these employees, leaving them stranded without a reliable means of transportation. Without a car, accessing work can become difficult and expensive, resulting in late arrivals, reduced productivity, and even absenteeism.
For employees who depend on public transport, the impact of train strikes extends beyond commuting challenges. The stress and uncertainty associated with unpredictable train services can take a toll on their mental well-being, causing anxiety and decreased job satisfaction. As people managers, it is crucial to address these issues and provide alternatives to ensure a reliable and productive workforce.
Shared shuttle buses offer benefits beyond addressing the challenges posed by train strikes. Businesses located in areas with unreliable or unavailable public transport can significantly benefit from a dedicated shuttle service. Here are some advantages:
Increased Employee Attendance
A reliable and efficient shuttle service ensures employees can attend work consistently, regardless of public transport availability. This reduces absenteeism, boosts workforce reliability, and improves overall productivity.
Enhanced Employee Satisfaction
Providing a shuttle bus service demonstrates your commitment to supporting your employees' needs. This fosters a positive work environment, leading to increased job satisfaction and employee retention.
Environmental Responsibility
By offering a shared shuttle bus service, you encourage employees to opt for a greener commuting alternative, reducing the carbon footprint associated with individual car journeys.
Train strikes can cause significant disruptions, affecting workforce reliability and productivity. By preparing in advance, keeping communication open and looking at innovative, short-term solutions like shuttle buses, you can ensure productivity is maintained.
