East Midlands Railway is the Headline Partner for the 2026 Community Rail Awards, as well as the sponsor of the 'Empowering Diverse Groups' category.

Connecting Communities, Celebrating Rail – East Midlands Railway is honoured to be the Headline Partner of the 2026 Community Rail Awards in Derby!

At East Midlands Railway (EMR), we’re passionate about putting communities at the heart of everything we do. As headline partner of the 2026 Community Rail Awards, we’re thrilled to celebrate the dedication, creativity and collaboration that drive community rail across the UK.

Operating intercity and regional services that connect key cities like Sheffield, Nottingham, Derby and Leicester with London and the East Midlands, EMR is committed to delivering sustainable, accessible and reliable journeys. Our investment in greener technologies, such as our new bi-mode Aurora fleet and station energy-saving initiatives, reflects our long-term vision for a low-carbon future.

With our headquarters in Derby – a city steeped in railway innovation – we are proud to continue that legacy through our support of local partnerships, educational outreach, and inclusive initiatives that bring people together. With over 750 station adopters and twelve funded Community Rail Partnerships we are proud to work closely with them to support the communities we serve to create a welcoming and resilient railway network.

East Midlands Railway is delighted to celebrate the achievements of the community rail family, whose tireless efforts strengthen connections between people, places and the railway every day.

Visit East Midlands Railway's website to learn more.