As I write the Rail Unions and Southern Rail are meeting at ACAS. The number of passengers have increased massively in recent years and they have more than enough issues on the line without strike action on top.
I have urged the Government to extend its £6bn investment plan on our local rail network still further, reversing historic under-investment in our railways. Modernisation includes effective use of automation. I support a second professional continuing on the trains. However in an era in which every company explores new technology and elsewhere in transport drones deliver packages and industry is testing driver-less cars we have to be prepared extend modern working practices (which have been used already for 30 years) in order to work co-operatively for the best possible railway. Technology does not remove the need for face-to-face contact, speaking to professional staff who we trust. Used properly technology enhances their role.
On Friday I sat in on a Coroner’s Inquest being held in Horsham. There can be few areas in which science has moved faster than forensic science – but there can be no area in which human interaction is more important than when one loses a relative in strange or tragic circumstances.
Coroners look into unexplained or sudden deaths and Friday’s was a particularly sad and difficult case, handled with great sensitivity. In some cases detailed pathological evidence may be presented but in every case the human angle is at its heart – as it has been since the office was created nearly 1,000 years ago.
Happily few of us will be required to attend a Coroner’s court – but if we do it will be in the worst of circumstances. It was a pleasure to meet Carol of the Victim Support Services. This team of trained volunteers attend the Coroners Court to support and assist victims. For the most vulnerable having someone alongside them who knows the procedure and can assist in every practical way is a huge relief. It is an invaluable service for those in need. If anyone would like to hear more or would like to help please do let me know – I would be delighted to put you in touch.