Protest held as campaigners call for action over rail staff shortages at Birmingham New Street

Outside the bustling entrance of Birmingham New Street Station, a group of campaigners from the RMT union gathered today to voice mounting concerns over staff shortages on the rail network.

Armed with placards and leaflets, they accused Avanti West Coast of failing to replace departing staff, leaving ticket offices under-manned and passengers increasingly unsupported.

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New Street, one of the UK's busiest transport hubs, has seen mounting frustrations as queues grow longer and vital services become harder to access. Campaigners say the issue is not just about employment—it's about the impact on passengers, especially those who rely on human help in an increasingly digital system.

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“Machines and apps are fine until they don’t work—or until someone doesn’t know how to use them,” said one protester. “We’re here for the elderly, the vulnerable, and anyone who just wants to speak to a real person when their journey hits a bump.”

Leaflets handed out by the group detailed experiences from passengers who missed connections, struggled to purchase the correct fare, or found themselves lost in moments of disruption—all due to the absence of front-line staff.

The protest comes despite a recent breakthrough in strike negotiations between Avanti and unions over rest-day working. Campaigners argue that the broader, day-to-day staffing issue remains unresolved.

“It’s a silent cut,” said another demonstrator. “Roles aren’t being formally axed—but they’re not being filled either. That’s eroding public trust and damaging the passenger experience.”

RMT says it will continue holding peaceful awareness events at major stations like New Street until staffing levels are restored to what they see as safe and sustainable. Their message is clear: accessibility and reliability on the railways depend on people—not just platforms and software.

As public pressure builds, attention now turns to how rail operators will respond—and whether those most affected will finally see their voices reflected in the future of rail travel.