Seaham celebrates first-ever direct train link to London with historic Grand Central launch
15 December 2025
Press Releases
By Grand Central Rail
7 minute read
01 June 2026
Grand Central have launched new youth-led volunteer programme at Bradford Interchange, supporting passengers while helping young people build confidence and employability skills.
The initiative, launched by Grand Central, introduces a team of volunteer ambassadors aged 18 to 25. The group began a three-month trial in April, with up to four volunteers on duty each Sunday to provide a friendly and reassuring presence for customers.
15 recruits have completed a comprehensive training programme to prepare them for their roles. This includes rail safety and confidence training, customer service roleplay, station inductions and hands-on rail familiarisation. Many participants have also undertaken Samaritans training, with further sessions planned in partnership with Guide Dogs.
Delivered in partnership with the Community Rail Network, the programme is especially being highlighted during Community Rail Week as part of Grand Central’s Social Value work for 2026. It supports the wider Arriva Rail Services Sustainability Strategy, with a focus on opportunity, inclusion and community impact.
Early feedback from volunteers has been positive. Kimia Modaressi, one of the new ambassadors, said:
“At the beginning of the day, I felt nervous stepping into a busy environment and speaking with members of the public. However, as the day went on, my confidence grew significantly.
As a young person volunteering, this experience has encouraged me to step outside of my comfort zone and build confidence in a professional environment. It has given me a better understanding of responsibility, public interaction and the importance of helping others. I look forward to continuing to develop these skills and volunteering on a regular basis.”
Alongside the ambassador team, the programme also includes five supporting roles, helping to ensure a strong and visible presence across the station during busy periods.
