How the Inspire Justice Awards sparked change at Network Rail

Sarah Boland reflects on supporting the justice sector

As a HR leader responsible for workforce planning and development in support of Britain’s key strategic infrastructure, we invited Network Rail’s Sarah Boland to experience the Inspire Justice Awards last month.

The centrality of Network Rail and the justice sector to our economy and society are clear, but what other parallels can be drawn between them?

With that in mind, we caught up with Sarah to find out what she took away from that event and how it has inspired her in her role.

1. The Inspire Justice Awards is a celebration of the unsung heroes of policing, prisons, probation, courts and more. As someone who works outside of the sector, how would you summarise the role of the justice sector workforce in society?

The often-unseen justice workforce drive meaningful change every single day, be that in policing, prisons, probation, courts and tribunals, or in community or charity settings. Through the support these people provide, our communities are safer. Those navigating the justice system are enabled to rebuild their lives, often after experiencing significant trauma or overcoming personal difficulties, such as addiction. Justice sector workers uphold the rule of law, protect the vulnerable, and ensure accountability all to the benefit of society.

2. What did you take away from the event? Is there a specific moment or story from the event that has really stayed with you?

The keynote speaker, Kam Stevens, was very impactful and inspiring.

Everything that Kam has been through – when the system let him down in his early years, and then that same system helped him rebuild – showed what a strong, inspiring resilient individual he is.

Be Part of Change CIC, Jeannine Burke, was also a story that will stay with me for a long time. Jeannine has dedicated her life to great work that came from a such a horrible situation (the loss of her son to knife crime), the strength and selflessness she shows – how to turn something horrible into something good – and to want change was inspiring.

3. How does Network Rail support the justice sector’s aims and objectives?

Network Rail have multiple programmes available to help re-integrate ex-offenders such as the Rail Engineering Centre of Excellence programme which has been running since August 2022. It offers prisoners a guaranteed job on successfully completing the course, meaning prison leavers can enter gainful employment upon release. We are keen to explore how we can improve social values and mobility in this area.

4. Has attending the Inspire Justice Awards inspired you in any way or made you think about things differently?

Yes, absolutely. It has made me want to explore what our organisation has available to help support. I want to explore how I can be involved to help and, in some way, make a positive difference.

5. What is your message to people and organisations outside of the justice sector about the Inspire Justice Awards?

These awards go to unsung heroes that in their everyday role are making and creating change for the better.

I would encourage others to take a look and see how in their roles or organisation could contribute to help and create difference to those that need it. The gift could be in your power.