Passenger Voice June 2016: Rail industry efforts to make passengers feel safer working

27 May 2016

Stopping rowdy passengers from boarding some trains and increasing the presence of staff have made passengers feel safer.

Our latest report reveals that Network Rail and train company initiatives to improve passengers’ sense of safety at stations and on trains have worked. One such initiative was by Merseyrail which stopped very drunk passengers from using its services.

We found that the actions taken by the rail industry over recent years to make passengers feel safer have worked. Naturally some initiatives have been more successful than others. A visible staff presence has stood out as really reassuring passengers.

The industry must build on the findings of this report by continuing its focus on making passengers feel safe.”

Key findings of the report, Passenger perceptions of personal security on the railways, include:

  • anti-social behaviour by other people at the station and on the train continues to be the biggest reason for concern over personal security for passengers
  • a visible staff presence at stations and on trains reassures passengers and enhances their perception of security
  • targeted and time-limited bans of alcohol which are enforced and communicated properly to passengers can be effective
  • live-monitored CCTV and linked help points should be provided at stations where there isn’t a staff presence.

To download the report click here.

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