How supporting magistrate volunteers makes your workforce stronger: Lessons from GTR

PAUL

Why did you become a magistrate?

I first became interested after seeing an advert for the role. I knew nothing about the criminal justice system, so observing court three times was a real eye‑opener. I found it fascinating and knew I wanted to get involved. 

Funnily enough, the first magistrate I ever heard in court is still a colleague today, 22 years on. For me, being a magistrate is about serving the community, working as part of a team, and treating everyone who appears in court with fairness and sensitivity. 

What support from your employer matters most?

Tom and the team are incredibly supportive. I’m allowed up to 18 days’ paid leave a year for magistrate duties, which makes a huge difference. As a train driver, I work four days out of six, so technically I could squeeze magistrate work in without the extra leave, but it would really limit what I can do.

As I gained experience, I took on additional roles to help support new magistrates coming in. I sit on several panels, including as a Presiding Justice (the magistrate who speaks on behalf of the panel in court), as well as a mentor and appraiser, helping to train magistrates and assess their competence and performance. These come with extra responsibilities and training. Without the additional leave, I simply couldn’t take on those roles. I book my magistrate days well in advance and always try to keep disruption to a minimum.

What do you bring back to the railway from magistrate work?

Being a magistrate and being a train driver complement each other. Both roles need long concentration, clear communication, and sticking to rules and procedures. Doing both sharpens those skills. 

I’m also trying to inspire colleagues to think about becoming magistrates. Whenever someone says “I couldn’t do that”, I tell them they absolutely could. A few have already come to observe me in court. I’ve got 10 to 12 years left on the railway. It would be wonderful to see one or two of them appointed, maybe even mentor them. 

Why is employer support so important?

Doing this role without employer support would be tough. GTR has always encouraged me, and that’s given me real confidence. My colleagues show genuine interest in my judicial work. Their support means everything. 

TOM

Why does supporting magistrate volunteers matter?

Supporting an employee who volunteers as a magistrate is hugely valuable. It shows we take civic responsibility seriously and that we’re an employer who backs our people to contribute to society. It reflects well on GTR and strengthens our culture.

Magistrates bring integrity, sound judgment, and fairness. These are qualities every employer needs. By supporting Paul, we’re not only helping him grow but reinforcing professionalism and public service values across the depot.

How do you balance magistrate commitments with business needs?

It’s all about planning and communication. Paul books his magistrate days well in advance with our roster team, who coordinate shifts, meaning we can manage cover with minimal disruption.

Paul keeps us updated on his commitments, so can work proactively and ensure operations continue smoothly. He’s incredibly conscientious, which makes the balance easy to manage.

What benefits have you seen at work?

Paul’s magistrate experience clearly strengthens his work on the railway. He stays calm under pressure, communicates clearly, and makes balanced decisions – especially valuable during disruption.

He also sets a great example. He’s respected, professional, and always willing to help colleagues or the business. His attitude and approach lift the whole team.

What would you say to other employers?

I’d strongly encourage employers to support staff interested in becoming magistrates. The organisation gains just as much as the employee. Magistrates develop excellent skills in judgment, communication, teamwork, resilience and fairness. All directly transferable to the workplace. 

With good planning, the operational impact is minimal. What you gain is an employee who’s more skilled, more confident and more committed to both their community and their employer.