Want to help SWR improve services?

South Western Railway (SWR) is offering passengers the opportunity to help make a difference to how it runs services by inviting them to join its new Customer Council.

The Customer Council is an independent voice that constructively represents the experiences of customers directly to SWR’s senior management. Members will feedback on and develop new projects and initiatives that can positively impact customers, and get involved with local council activities and events. They will also be able to offer advice on a wide range of issues, including timetable changes and how delays are dealt with.

Members of the Customer Council will also be well-placed to challenge decisions and make sure the customers’ voice is heard. The Council is made up of six Members, including the existing Chair Geoffrey Bignell, and it's looking for five new representatives in the following areas:

• Central - covering stations from Raynes Park to Guildford, Woking, Shepperton, Alton, Chessington South, Bagshot to Hampton Court
• Metro - including London Waterloo to Windsor & Eton Riverside, Earley, Chertsey, Addlestone and Wimbledon
• South - covering Farncombe to Portsmouth, the Isle of Wight, Farnborough to Southampton Airport Parkway, Swaythling to Swanwick, Eastleigh to Cosham and Chandler’s Ford
• West - covering stations from Southampton Central to Weymouth and Overton to Pinhoe
• Digital - responsible for managing the online forum and website and monitoring social media channels

In return for their time and commitment, Council Members will receive free standard class travel on SWR services. Applicants can find more information about each role, and how to apply, by clicking the following link: http://bit.ly/CustomerCouncil.

The deadline for submission is by close of play on Friday 28 February. SWR welcomes applicants (above the age of 16) from any background.

Geoffrey Bignell, Chair of the Customer Council, said:
"The Council puts the voice and experiences of customers directly to senior management. 

"It’s a great opportunity for passengers to get involved and help influence decisions about how services, new initiatives and projects are delivered across the network. I look forward to receiving applications from our customers."