South Asian Women Volunteer at Accrington Station

A group of about 20 women from Accrington, Lancashire, have adopted their local railway station to enhance its appeal and showcase their hometown. The initiative began in 2021 when Shahiesta Raja from Community Rail Lancashire invited women to socialize and subsequently form an adoption group. The group, which includes members from a minority community, meets weekly to clean the station, maintain floral displays, and work on art projects, aiming to transform the station garden into a community space. Treasurer Neilam Iqbal emphasized their commitment to community service, which is rooted in their culture. This unique group is believed to be the only station adoption initiative in the UK comprised entirely of South Asian Muslim women, providing them with a space to reconnect and foster friendships. They also engage in charity work and host educational visits for local schoolchildren.