Safety and Security When Travelling by Train

Its anticipated that train travel in the UK will be significantly boosted by improvements proposed and actioned by the current government. In our latest post we look at what these mean for passenger safety and security and provide some useful tips for train travellers. 

Travelling by train in the UK has become enormously challenging, expensive and confusing. Rail privatisation has resulted in higher fares, lower reliability and massive overcrowding with chaotic timetables, cancellations, service reductions and staffing issues. And crime on the rail network has soared with 80,000 offences recorded at train stations in 2023/24, up from around 60,000 in 2022/23.

UK Rail Network Enhancements

The government has announced bold plans to overhaul the UK rail network and put the needs of passengers first. In December 2024 it was revealed that South Western Railway’s services will be the first to transfer into public ownership in 2025. The transition to public ownership is expected to improve reliability and make a significant contribution to the government’s top priority to boost economic growth, by encouraging people to use rail services.

Great British Railways (GBR) is a new public body that will be established to oversee and manage the UK rail network. GBR will take over from Network Rail and will be responsible for introducing many valuable improvements including simplified ticketing and rail fares, better integration between rail operators and establishing a clear focus on rail passenger experience and punctuality.

Digital technology is intended to play a vital role in modernising signaling and control systems. These much needed improvements are expected to result in increased capacity on existing railway lines, improved reliability, reduced delays and enhanced safety for travellers.

Many stations are set to undergo significant upgrades and improvements. A new station at Birmingham Curzon Street will be established for HS2 and Manchester Piccadilly station is expected to be expanded to accommodate HS2 and NPR (Northern Powerhouse Rail).

Making the UK rail network more environmentally friendly is another key objective. Proposed improvements we are likely to see in the near future include hydrogen and battery powered trains, renewable energy used at stations and at railway properties along with significant expansion of the green infrastructure, involving tree planting and wildlife corridors.

There will also be improvements to accessibility to make trains and stations more accessible to all passengers. And enhancements to rail freight services are expected to reduce both road congestion and emissions. These wide-ranging improvements are anticipated make a valuable contribution to the government’s important economic growth objectives.

Crime at UK Railway Stations

Crime data and statistics for UK railway stations are collected and published by the British Transport Police (BTP). In 2022/23 the BTP recorded around 60,000 crimes committed across the UK rail network including stations, trains and surrounding areas. This escalated to 80,000 offences recorded for 2023/24 with overall crime levels up by 55% since 2014.

Reports from recent years show an apparent increase in incidents of both violent crimes and sexual offenses. But this growth is thought to be partly due to better reporting and awareness campaigns along with greater willingness to report incidents. Rates of theft are an ongoing concern along with anti-social behaviour, which is a persistent issue, especially at busy, crowded stations.

Crime rates at railway stations are reported based on the number of crimes per million passengers. This has resulted in a relatively quiet little unstaffed station in Wales (Johnston) being highlighted as the worst UK train station for crime in 2024. With only 7000 passengers using the station throughout the whole of 2024 and 10 reported crimes in the year the number of crimes per million exceed the figures derived from far busier transport hubs where the number of crimes is much higher.

Fare evasion is, not surprisingly, the most prevalent crime committed at UK railway stations. A recent report from London’s Stratford station recorded 62 instances of fare dodging over just a 90 minute period.

Violent crimes are sadly also very common. These include physical assaults, verbal abuse, harassment, threats and intimidation. Crowded stations with high passenger volumes are often where these incidents take place and alcohol consumption is sometimes a contributing factor.

Theft and robbery, including pickpocketing and bag theft, are also common crimes suffered by rail travellers. Again, these crimes often take place in crowded, busy spaces including railway platforms, ticket areas and on crowded trains.

And anti-social behaviour, including vandalism, drunkenness and loitering, is also a challenging issue across the rail network. Stations close to nightlife and entertainment venues are often where significant anti-social behaviour incidents occur.

Experiencing crime and encountering anti-social behaviour puts many people off from travelling by train. But safety, security and passenger experience are at the forefront of the government’s plan to make significant improvements to rail travel in the UK and encourage more people to use trains.

Safety and Security Improvements for the UK Rail Network

Passenger safety campaigns are intended to educate passengers in how to remain safe and secure when travelling by train. These campaigns will encourage people to report suspicious behaviour and understand what they can do to keep themselves and their property safe and secure when travelling by train.

The British Transport Police (BTP) will increase the frequency of patrols at high crime stations and at specific times when some stations are very busy. This will deter criminal behaviour and boost passenger confidence. CCTV and surveillance systems at railway stations will continue to undergo upgrades to help prevent and investigate crimes.

Automation will be increasingly introduced to address ‘signal passed at danger’ (SPAD) incidents, wherein trains pass a stop signal, resulting in accidents. Automated systems will ensure trains stop in time and are expected to enhance capacity and reliability on busy routes.

Level crossing safety is another aspect of rail network safety that’s due for enhancement. Some level crossings will be removed while others will be improved. Improvements are likely to include replacing some crossings with bridges or underpasses, adding warning systems and barriers along with the installation of automated obstacle detection systems.

New, improved rolling stock will include advanced features to boost passenger safety and security. These improvements include greater crash resilience, fire resistant materials and improved passenger evacuation systems.

The risks for passengers on station platforms will be reduced by installing tactile paving for visually impaired passengers, increased CCTV coverage and platform-edge barriers and doors.

Rail system infrastructure including tracks, bridges, tunnels and trackside fencing, are all identified for replacement and strengthening. Remote monitoring systems will be deployed to keep a watchful eye on the condition of these vital resources.

How to Remain Safe and Secure when Travelling by Train

While the proposed safety and security improvements for rail passengers are clearly very welcome what can rail travellers do today to stay safe and secure when travelling? Here are some sensible tips and guidance that will help you stay safe and secure when travelling by train.

Plan Your Journey

A happy, trouble-free train journey starts with a little planning. Its always a good idea to check train times and be aware of any potential disruptions, due to engineering works, that might affect the journey. If the journey requires changing trains, make certain you know how much time you have to make your connection. Another important aspect of journey planning is to always share your plans with relevant people so they know when you are expected to arrive.

Remain Alert

A key aspect of passenger safety campaigns is encouraging travellers to remain alert. Remaining highly aware of surroundings, especially when travelling at night or through busy, unfamiliar stations, is very beneficial. Travellers are prompted to avoid distractions such as using their phones or listening to noise cancelling headphones, as these can reduce awareness of any potential risks.

Travel Light and Secure Your Valuables

In order to reduce the risk of losing valuables its always a good idea to travel light and only take what you need for the journey. Wallets, purses, phones and valuables should be kept out of sight in a secure bag and it makes sense not to display valuable jewellery or watches. Never leave personal belongings unattended, even for a moment, and always ensure your mobile phone is fully charged before embarking on your journey so that you can check travel information or make emergency calls.

Be Aware of Where You Are

Its always a good idea to avoid isolated areas of a train station and remain in spaces that are well lit and busy. When waiting for trains on a platform, stand well back from the edge and consider standing close to security or railway personnel.

Travel with Companions

Travelling with companions or in groups is another valuable safety and security precaution. This is particularly useful when travelling at night as groups are far less likely to be targeted by opportunistic criminals.

Choose Where You Sit

When choosing where to sit on a train, sit in busier carriages where there are other travellers. It also makes sense to familiarise yourself with the emergency alarm and exits.

Precautions for Lone Female Travellers

Lone female passengers can sometimes feel particularly vulnerable, especially when travelling after dark. All of these train travel precautions will help ensure a safe journey. It also makes sense to wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move quickly and easily.

Also, remain alert, avoid alcohol consumption and report any suspicious behaviour. If you need a taxi at your destination station, it makes sense to book in advance from a reputable, licensed taxi firm to avoid waiting.

Carry a Personal Security Alarm

Another useful personal security precaution is to carry a personal security alarm. These low cost security devices, also known as rape alarms, emit incredibly loud alarm sounds when triggered by pulling the simple rip cord. This noise is enough to scare off attackers and once activated can only be stopped by re-inserting the rip cord. Carrying one of these simple alarms is great for boosting confidence when travelling by train, especially alone.

For more information on Safety and Security When Travelling by Train talk to Insight Security