Overview

Between April 2019 and May 2024, McGinley Support Services successfully delivered a comprehensive contingent labour solution for Network Rail's High Output (HO) operations. Valued at over £70 million across five years, this contract exemplified McGinley's capability in managing large-scale, multi-site recruitment and deployment while driving safety and technological innovations.

Objectives

McGinley was tasked with providing contingent labour to support Network Rail's HO programme, which involved extensive ballast cleaning and track replacement activities nationwide. Key objectives included:

  • Ensuring real-time safety updates and continuous safety improvements.
  • Recruiting and integrating local contingent labour.
  • Achieving social value targets, including diversity and inclusion initiatives.

Challenges and Solutions

Network Rail required a shift from traditional labour practices, aiming for closer integration and a unified safety culture. McGinley responded by:

  • Creating a dedicated HO Account Management Team, embedding within Network Rail's operations to foster collaboration and cohesion.
  • Implementing fixed-hours contracts to enhance workforce stability and engagement.
  • Utilising innovative safety technology such as the 'Safety At McGinley' (SAM) app and EPIC devices to streamline safety reporting and updates.

Achievements

  • Safety and Innovation: Introduced the SAM app for easy close-call reporting and EPIC devices for real-time safety updates, contributing to a safety-first culture.
  • Efficiency and Reliability: Delivered 100% of all HO contingent labour, significantly improving from 60% under the previous contract. Achieved a <1% dropout rate, demonstrating effective candidate selection and retention.
  • Social Value: Exceeded the '5% Club' apprentice target with ~7% apprentices on the HO contract, promoting diversity and local community engagement.
  • Record-breaking Performance: Participated in Network Rail’s record-breaking TRS achievement, replacing 4208 yards of track within a 53-hour possession period.

Feedback and Testimonials

Network Rail commended McGinley's workforce for their exceptional performance and dedication:

  • “Sincere thanks to all the Network Rail team and our partners McGinley. The outcome was enabled by fantastic development, long-term planning, and meticulous site preparation. Safely delivered by a professional site team who it's been a great privilege to lead.”
  • “We had 10 of your staff out last night working on our section booked through the Network Rail High Output on an emergency job. I just wanted to express my gratitude; your staff performed exceptionally well. Man to man they were brilliant.”

Conclusion

The High Output contract with Network Rail stands as a testament to McGinley's expertise in delivering large-scale recruitment and labour solutions, coupled with a strong commitment to safety, innovation, and social value. This successful partnership highlights our ability to meet complex client needs and drive industry-leading performance in the infrastructure sector.

 

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