A dedicated train service that provides a supported travel experience for people living with dementia and their carers will leave Whitby station at midday on Wednesday, Oct. 21, after securing a £1,000 contribution from a train manufacturer’s community fund.
Local service funded to maintain onboard supports
The Forget‑Me‑Not train, operated by the Esk Valley Railway, offers a short escorted outing along the Esk Valley to Middlesbrough and back, combining accessible travel with light entertainment and practical supports tailored for passengers living with dementia.
The recent cash injection came from CAF Rail through its community chest fund. Esk Valley Railway general manager Lisa Williams said the award will be used to sustain complimentary elements provided on board and to support publicity to reach those who may benefit.
“There’s a company called CAF Rail who are actually train manufacturers. They have awarded us £1,000 from their community chest fund in recognition of the valuable work that the Forget‑Me‑Not train does, which we’re absolutely thrilled to get some these recognitions along the line is really thrilling. It's wonderful.”
Williams told organisers are already planning for funding beyond the current year; the project has confirmed funding only through the end of this year and organisers are seeking support for the next two years.
What passengers can expect on the Whitby outing
The service aims to provide a calm, supported environment for people who may find standard travel challenging. Onboard features for the Whitby–Middlesbrough return include:
- Live music from the Dave Clegg Duo;
- Complimentary hand massages provided to passengers;
- Scenic views along the River Esk and a gentle social setting for carers and families.
Organisers advise attendees to bring their own food: there are no refreshment facilities aboard the train or at Middlesbrough station during the outing.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Departure from Whitby | 12:00 pm |
| Arrival Middlesbrough | 1:32 pm |
| Return to Whitby | 3:37 pm |
| Recent funding | £1,000 from CAF Rail |
| Funding confirmed until | End of this year |
Local context and sustainability concerns
The Forget‑Me‑Not train is one of a growing number of community initiatives that aim to make cultural and leisure activities more accessible to people living with dementia. Such outings provide both respite and social connection for carers and relatives, but they depend on modest grants and donations to maintain the additional staffing, entertainment and therapeutic elements that distinguish the service from ordinary passenger trains.
Williams said the CAF Rail award will help cover the costs of musicians, massage therapy and small giveaways that make the day manageable and enjoyable for participants. She also made clear that the project must secure further support to continue beyond the current funding horizon.
For Whitby residents, the service represents a locally offered option for an accessible day trip and points to the wider role that community partners — including rail industry firms — can play in supporting inclusive transport initiatives.
Information about booking and eligibility for the Forget‑Me‑Not train is available through the Esk Valley Railway’s event listings and local community channels; organisers encourage carers who may benefit from the service to make contact and to note the advice to bring picnic provisions for the journey.
Reporting for ZTL in Whitby relied on a statement from the Esk Valley Railway and comments from Lisa Williams. The contribution from CAF Rail was confirmed by the operator as part of the train manufacturer’s community chest funding programme.
