Light rail leaders have pledged to step up a campaign for a change in the law that will allow young people to work as volunteers on heritage tramways and railways.
Prior to last year’s general election, a Parliamentary Bill was drawn up by Lord Faulkner of Worcester that would see exemptions to the Employment of Women, Young Persons and Children Act of 1921.
Under current laws, it is illegal for under 16s to work in an industrial setting, including tramways and railways, even as unpaid volunteers, presenting a further barrier to the preservation of the nation’s rich light rail heritage.
The issue was raised recently during a meeting between UKTram Managing Director James Hammett and government ministers and officials, and members of the UKTram Heritage Tramway Committee were updated on the outcome last week.
James explained: “I’m pleased to report that those we spoke to were very supportive of the proposals first put forward to Lord Faulkner by Geoffrey Claydon, a former Chair of the HTC.
“Although Geoffrey has now retired and there has been a change of government, we will continue to press for the bill to be put before parliament as encouraging young people to get involved with heritage systems is vital to their survival, and the future of the wider light rail sector.
“With the correct safety protocols in place, it doesn’t make sense to deny enthusiastic young people the chance to find out more about our history, learn valuable new skills and possibly take the first steps towards a rewarding career.”
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