Train Strikes UK: What The Ultimate Guide 2023
- Avanti West Coast
- C2C
- Chiltern Railways
- CrossCountry
- East Midlands Railway
- Great Northern
- Great Western Railway
- Greater Anglia (including Stansted Express)
- LNER
- London Northwestern Railway
- Northern Rail
- South Western Railway
- Southeastern (Aslef days only)
- Southern (including Gatwick Express)
- Thameslink
- TransPennine Express
- West Midlands Railway
Why Are the Strikes Happening?
The primary reason for the strikes is a long-standing dispute over pay, jobs, and conditions. Unions argue that any pay offer should reflect the rising cost of living, which is currently above 10%.
However, the rail industry is under pressure to save money after the pandemic left a hole in its finances. Bosses say reforms need to be agreed to afford pay increases and modernise the railway.
What’s the Average Salary of Rail Workers?
According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), the average salary of rail workers in 2022 was £45,919. If drivers are excluded, the estimate is £39,518.
However, the RMT union said that figure was too high because it does not include rail cleaning staff. The ONS says median pay for “train and tram drivers” is just under £59,000.
