Recognising that sustainability is a challenge best tackled together, Southeastern and Action Sustainability are working hand-in-hand to support SMEs in overcoming common barriers, such as limited resources, knowledge gaps, or uncertainty about where to begin. The partnership will help SMEs unlock sustainability opportunities, ensuring these businesses can thrive as part of a greener, fairer economy while meeting growing expectations around responsible business practices.
The initiative will officially launched today at a virtual event. The event will highlight Southeastern’s sustainability agenda, introduce a selection of free training sessions for SMEs, and provide practical guidance on key topics such as sustainable procurement, modern slavery prevention, and climate action.
Graham Mollison, Head of Sustainability at Southeastern, said:
"Sustainability isn’t something we can achieve alone—it’s a team effort. Partnering with Action Sustainability allows us to combine our strengths and ensure our SME suppliers are fully supported to embrace a greener future. This collaboration is a shining example of how we can work together to drive meaningful change, not just for our business, but for the communities and environments we serve."
This joint initiative reflects a shared commitment by Southeastern and Action Sustainability to address some of the most pressing challenges facing businesses today. Together, they are focusing on three critical areas—sustainable procurement, the prevention of modern slavery, and climate action. These priorities align not only with Southeastern’s sustainability targets but also with broader goals for creating a more equitable and resilient society.
Tim Stockford, Head of Procurement at Southeastern, commented:
"Our Procurement Social Value Charter is about creating meaningful, sustainable impacts—not just for Southeastern but for the wider community. This initiative aims to support SMEs and provide access to additional knowledge and tools to contribute to sustainability while remaining competitive in an evolving market. It’s a further step forward for us, and we’re excited about the positive change this will bring”
Mellita D’Silva, Lead Sustainable Procurement Consultant, Action Sustainability, said:
"Southeastern are one of the organisations that are mature in their sustainable procurement approach. They have consistently implemented the recommendations and continuous improvement based on the ISO 20400 evaluation we conducted for them, in embedding their Procurement Social Value Charter commitments and requirements into the supply chain.
They are now going one step further, in showing collaborative efforts to upskills not only within their organisations but also their supply chain, especially SMEs on sustainability topics, requirements and the procurement process".
Through this partnership, Southeastern and Action Sustainability aim to make sustainability an enabler, rather than a challenge, for SMEs. By combining Southeastern’s strategic commitment to environmental and social value with Action Sustainability’s expertise in embedding sustainable practices, this initiative promises to empower SMEs and drive collective action towards a better future.
By pooling their expertise and resources, Southeastern and Action Sustainability will deliver significant benefits for SMEs, for the rail industry, and for the planet.
