Poetry exhibitions and travel leaflets produced by station volunteers on the Marshlink rail line have contributed to more than £600,000 in social value for communities in the last year.
The figure is contained in the annual review from Southeast Communities Rail Partnership (SCRP) which connects communities to their railways. The report details some of the activities which have taken place at stations on the Marshlink route including Rye and Winchelsea.
Rye Harbour Writers ran a competition with the theme of a positive experience of train travel with the winning entries displayed in the waiting room at the station. Volunteers at Winchelsea produced an updated map and leaflet to promote businesses and attractions within walking and cycling distance of the station.
SCRP’s 2025-2026 annual review details £679,000 in social value and more than 34,800 volunteer hours on projects and activities on 10 rail lines and three education projects. The community interest company raised £124,000 in grants to station partners and for projects in the year to 31 March 2026 plus a further £33,000 in donations.
Tim Barkley, chair of Southeast Communities Rail Partnership, said, “With greater focus than ever on social value, we are delighted to be able to show some genuinely impressive numbers in this year’s review. You can read case studies about the work with young people, cultural organisations, community garden groups and a host of other partners. These show in real world terms the value of the Community Rail Partnership and demonstrate the superb results that working together with local communities can bring.
More details about the work of Southeast CRP are in the annual review.
Image Credits: Paul Bromley SCRP .