Rail Ways of Care
Supporting unpaid carers in and around Bristol through rail-based wellbeing experiences for respite and social connection
What is Rail Ways of Care?
Rail Ways of Care is a new community wellbeing project, led by the Severnside Community Rail Partnership, and delivered and evaluated by Dr Miriam Ricci. The project supports unpaid carers in and around Bristol, through a series of co-created rail-based experiences, offering carers opportunities for respite and connection, while contributing to a more inclusive and accessible railway.
Funded for 12 months from April 2025 through a grant from Great Western Railways (Customer & Communities Improvement Fund 25/26), the project is centred around rail-based experiences and creative activities that support unpaid carers’ wellbeing, helping them connect with others, gain confidence in rail travel and influence positive change. Most outdoor activities will take place during the summer months.
Why this project?
Unpaid carers provide vital support to loved ones but often face stress, social isolation and limited access to leisure or support. In Bristol alone, over 33,000 people provide unpaid care. Rail travel can offer access to wellbeing experiences – but many carers experience barriers such as financial constraints, accessibility issues, lack of information and opportunity to access such experiences.
What are the project’s objectives?
- Improve carers’ wellbeing by offering rail-based respite, social and nature-connection, and new experiences accessible by rail.
- Empower carers to confidently travel by rail during and beyond the project, by offering information on rail accessibility, safety and services.
- Collect actionable feedback to help create a more inclusive and carer-friendly railway network.
What activities will be offered?
Carers will take part in a range of free co-created rail-based social activities including:
- Rail journeys to nature or heritage sites, with wellbeing and mindfulness elements
- Rail-accessible walks and talks from local stations
- Workshops on accessibility, safety, and confidence in rail travel
- Creative storytelling and feedback to share experiences and shape a more inclusive railway
Who is this for?
Unpaid carers in and around Bristol, whether they are in receipt of Carer’s Allowance or not. According to the Carers Trust, an unpaid carer is someone who provides care and support to a family member or friend who has an illness, disability, mental health condition, or addiction, without receiving payment for their caregiving role. This includes individuals of all ages, such as young adult carers aged 16–25, who may assist with practical tasks like cooking and shopping, personal care, emotional support, or managing medications.
Unpaid carers play a vital role in supporting the health and social care systems, often without formal recognition. It’s important to note that many individuals do not self-identify as carers, which can hinder their access to available support. Recognising and supporting unpaid carers is crucial for their wellbeing and the sustainability of care systems.
Want to get involved?
We’re inviting local organisations who support carers and the people they care for to:
- Help us reach carers who could benefit
- Refer participants to the project
- Explore potential for collaboration or outreach
To find out more or get involved, please contact:
Dr Miriam Ricci
Project Manager – Rail Ways of Care
📧 miriam@miriamriccicoaching.com