Train cancellations due to staff shortages – watchdog responds

22 December 2021

Responding to rail services being cancelled in the run-up to Christmas due to staff shortages from Covid, Transport Focus chief executive Anthony Smith said:

“It’s better for some services to be temporarily withdrawn on a planned basis than to have chaotic last-minute cancellations.

“These are harder for passengers to deal with and more likely to lead to overcrowding.

“Passengers need clear, reliable information to plan their journeys. Anyone who has already bought tickets must be told and offered alternatives or their money back.”

Transport Focus will continue to monitor the cancellations and ensure the information available for passengers is clear and accurate so they can plan their journeys with confidence.