Loop and RSSB Launch New Sustainable Rail Blueprint Dashboard For Social Value

Working with the rail sector’s dedicated social value measurement platform – the Rail Social Value Tool (RSVT) – we have supported to release a brand-new dashboard that aligns with the Sustainable Rail Blueprint.

The Sustainable Rail Blueprint is an industry-wide framework for achieving sustainable rail, led by the Rail Safety and Standards Board (RSSB) and co-created with the entire industry.

The new RSVT update allows users to map their social value metrics – using the National Social Value Standard (SVS) framework – to the Blueprint to provide a clearer picture of progress, along with more consistent measurement of social impact across operators and the wider rail sector.

Miça Schultz, our Product Lead, said: “RSSB’s Sustainable Rail Blueprint sets the direction of travel for the whole industry, so our users having access to a dedicated dashboard where they can map their social value metrics against the blueprint was the next development.

“This Blueprint will be impactful for not just each organisation, but the sector at large as well to make sure there is greater consistency in how social value and impact is measured. The scope for positive social value from rail operations is huge, so the dashboard and integration with the Blueprint together aim to make the practice more accurate and meaningful when showcasing impact.”

Initially launched in 2022, the RSVT was a first for the rail sector, which we developed in partnership with the RSSB. It gives users the ability to forecast and report on the social impact of their activity, with development focused on functionality that reflects the way the industry operates – such as aligning reporting periods and allowing geographical level measurement down to specific stations.

The bespoke database of more than 500 metrics was developed in collaboration with industry experts to ensure all are truly fit-for-purpose and reflect the rail sector’s unique operations. This allows users of the RSVT to measure hundreds of benefits including those across the environment, people and communities, inclusivity, and distribution of activities.

Stacey Head, Sustainability Manager at the Rail Safety and Standards Board, said: “Embedding the sustainable Rail Blueprint dashboard into the Rail Social Value Tool marks a significant step forward in the industry’s commitment to sustainability and social responsibility.

“This integration will empower organisations to measure and report their positive contributions, supporting the rail sector in enhancing its work on sustainability and social value.”