Police to score train firms on tackling sexual harassment
Police to score train firms on tackling sexual harassment
Police to score train firms on tackling – Under a new government initiative, train operators will face evaluation by the British Transport Police (BTP) on their effectiveness in addressing sexual harassment on the rail network. The scheme, known as the Safer Railway Scheme, introduces eight specific criteria to measure how companies handle incidents of harassment, including support for victims, crime prevention strategies, and the overall safety environment for passengers. This move comes in response to growing concerns about the prevalence of sexual assaults on trains and the need for stronger accountability measures.
Rising Reports Highlight the Need for Change
A BBC investigation has revealed a significant increase in reports of sexual assaults on trains over the past decade, with a third more cases documented compared to previous years. The findings point to systemic challenges, such as inadequate CCTV coverage, which has allowed perpetrators to evade justice. While the rail network has improved in recent years, critics argue that the current system still fails to protect vulnerable individuals effectively.
According to the study, the lack of consistent surveillance and response protocols has created a climate where sexual offenders can operate with relative impunity. This has led to widespread frustration among women’s safety organizations and survivors of abuse, who see the new scheme as a step forward but not a comprehensive solution. The data underscores the urgency of reform, as the incidents not only affect commuters but also impact their daily routines and sense of security.
Government Plans and Criteria for Assessment
The Safer Railway Scheme mandates that train operators meet a minimum score of 70% across eight key areas, such as victim support, protection of vulnerable passengers, and crime prevention. The Department for Transport will have the authority to require underperforming companies to develop improvement plans, but the initiative does not include financial or legal penalties for those failing to meet the standards. This decision has sparked debate about the adequacy of the measures, with some calling for stricter enforcement to ensure meaningful change.
Safeguarding minister Natalie Fleet emphasized the importance of addressing sexual harassment, stating,
“I know what it is like to experience this kind of behaviour – the fear, the anger, and the way it changes how you move through the world.” Too many women carry this every day, including on their journeys to work or home.”
Fleet’s comments reflect a personal connection to the issue, highlighting the emotional toll on victims and the need for systemic support. However, the absence of penalties has left some questioning whether the initiative will truly drive progress or merely serve as a symbolic gesture.
Survivors and Advocates Voice Concerns
Lucy Asson, a 27-year-old physiotherapist, shared her experience of being sexually assaulted on a train in December. Despite reporting the incident to the police, the perpetrator was never identified, leaving her to seek counselling for the lasting effects of the attack. Asson expressed disappointment with the government’s announcement, stating,
“It’s not how somebody should be living their life, in total angst and distress – it’s not acceptable. I couldn’t face becoming a recluse just for the sake of what this person did to me.”
Her frustration is echoed by many survivors, who argue that the new scheme does not address the root causes of harassment or provide tangible reassurance.
The End Violence Against Women Coalition praised the initiative for increasing scrutiny but stressed that the measures are insufficient. Janaya Walker, the organization’s interim director, noted,
“A naming and shaming exercise is one way to incentivise companies to do more, but we know that women and girls will not always have the luxury of skipping a train operator with a bad record.”
This highlights the ongoing challenge of ensuring that all rail services meet the required standards, particularly for those who cannot afford to change their commuting habits.
Industry Response and Scheme Objectives
The Rail Delivery Group, representing UK train operators, welcomed the Safer Railway Scheme, calling it a “clear ambition” to establish recognized safety benchmarks. Its chief executive, Jacqueline Starr, stated,
“Everyone has the right to travel and work without fear.”
The group believes the scheme will encourage operators to adopt consistent practices and improve passenger experiences. However, they acknowledge the need for further collaboration with law enforcement and advocacy groups to refine the approach.
The initiative aligns with the recently enacted Public Sexual Harassment Act, which has made intentional, sex-based harassment in public spaces a criminal offence. This legal framework now allows perpetrators to face fines, criminal records, and up to two years in prison. While this marks a significant shift in legal accountability, the BTP’s role in enforcing these standards remains critical. Ass Ch Con Charlie Doyle of the BTP emphasized the force’s commitment to tackling harassment, stating,
“The BTP will not tolerate sexual harassment on the railway network.”
Passengers are encouraged to play an active role in reporting incidents through the BTP’s 61016 helpline, which allows them to text in real-time updates about harassment on trains or at stations. This reporting mechanism is intended to supplement the operators’ efforts, but some argue it places the burden of safety on individuals rather than on the companies themselves. The BBC Action Line provides additional resources for those affected by the issues discussed in this article, offering support and guidance to survivors and advocates.
Challenges and the Road Ahead
While the Safer Railway Scheme is a positive step, its success depends on the implementation of robust measures by train operators. Critics point to the need for better coordination between the BTP and rail companies to ensure that victims receive timely support and that perpetrators are consistently held accountable. The scheme’s reliance on self-assessment by operators has also raised concerns about potential biases in how standards are applied.
For the government, the initiative represents an effort to address a long-standing issue, but it remains to be seen whether the 70% threshold will be enough to drive real improvements. Advocates continue to push for stricter penalties and more transparent reporting, arguing that the current framework lacks the urgency needed to make a lasting impact. As the scheme rolls out, its effectiveness will be closely watched by women’s safety groups, survivors, and the public, who hope it will lead to a safer and more equitable transport system.
The rising number of sexual assaults on trains serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges in public safety. With the Safer Railway Scheme in place, there is an opportunity to create a more proactive approach to harassment. However, the journey toward accountability and change will require continuous evaluation, adaptation, and a commitment to addressing the issues that have persisted for years. For now, the initiative stands as a starting point in the broader effort to ensure that rail travel is free from the fear of sexual violence.