Rail Industry Takes Stand Against Sexual Harassment Now

Sexual harassment in the rail industry is set to be addressed through a new campaign aimed at increasing reporting of harassment incidents on trains while providing support for victims. This initiative targets behaviors such as intrusive questions, unwelcome comments, and staring, encouraging passengers to report these actions to the British Transport Police (BTP). Launched as part of the government’s prominent ‘Enough’ campaign, this collaboration with major rail organizations aims to convey a firm message: sexual harassment in the rail industry will not be tolerated. The campaign will utilize bold, action-oriented messaging through posters and digital screens that guide passengers on how to access help, whether by texting BTP, talking to rail staff, or reporting incidents online. In partnership with the Department for Transport, Network Rail, the Rail Delivery Group, and BTP, this initiative places a strong emphasis on women’s safety throughout the railway system. It will be visible across stations, trains, and online platforms, reinforcing the message that harassment is unacceptable and must be reported seriously. Moreover, the Department for Transport and BTP are introducing the national Safer Railway Scheme. This initiative mandates that train operators demonstrate their commitment to preventing harassment, supporting victims, and training staff appropriately in response to incidents. Officially launched today, the Safer Railway Scheme will recognize rail companies that adhere to specific safety standards. This includes their efforts in tackling criminal behavior, providing support to victims, and fostering an environment where staff feel empowered to report abuse. To gain accreditation, they must achieve a minimum score of 70% against 8 defined standards, such as victim support and crime prevention. This campaign follows the enactment of the Public Sexual Harassment Act, which categorizes intentional, sex-based harassment in public as a criminal offense. As a result, perpetrators could potentially face criminal charges, monetary fines, and sentences of up to two years in prison. This marks the government’s firm push towards the most significant reforms in addressing these issues in decades. The initiative forms a crucial component of the government's innovative Violence against Women and Girls Strategy, which seeks to halve this problem over the next ten years. Minister for Safeguarding and Violence against Women and Girls, Natalie Fleet, stated: "I understand the fear and anger that accompany such behavior; too many women experience this daily, especially while commuting. Through our collaboration with the rail sector via the Enough campaign, we are leveraging every available opportunity to combat abuse and enhance safety for women and girls on public transport. Our efforts will continue until we achieve a safer environment for all." Local Transport Minister Lilian Greenwood emphasized, "Every traveler deserves to feel secure, yet many women still face discomforting behaviors on public transportation. The Safer Railway Scheme establishes clear expectations for train operators to prevent harassment and respond effectively to incidents, enabling women and girls to travel with assurance." Peter Gibbons, Chief Security Officer at Network Rail, remarked, "There is no place for sexual harassment in society, including on our trains and stations. We are dedicated to the Enough campaign and are working actively alongside the British Transport Police to enhance CCTV coverage and facilitate real-time access to footage, while making it easier for passengers to report incidents. There is still more work ahead of us." Issy Warren, Director of Programmes at Our Streets Now, noted, "Unwanted sexual comments and advances are a daily reality for millions of women and young girls in the UK. This type of harassment limits our ability to travel safely and confidently, often going unchallenged and unreported. We welcome the Safer Railway Scheme, which legally obliges train operators to prevent harassment." Victims and Tackling Violence Against Women and Girls Minister Catherine Atkinson added, "No individual should feel fearful of harassment, especially during simple journeys. The government’s commitment to addressing violence against women and girls includes tightening laws and bolstering victim support. The latest reforms are vital for reducing violence against women and girls over the next decade." Jacqueline Starr, Executive Chair and CEO of the Rail Delivery Group, stated, "The expansion of the Enough campaign is a significant advancement in confronting the mindsets and behaviors that facilitate violence against women and girls. We are dedicated to perpetuating its impact across the network. Moreover, the Safer Railway Scheme sets clear goals for all train operators to meet established benchmarks for passenger confidence and reduced crime rates." BTP Assistant Chief Constable Charlie Doyle declared, "We have zero tolerance for sexual harassment on the railway network, and combating this behavior requires a collective effort to ensure that stations and trains are safe spaces for all. Our officers are consistently present across the railway system, and we need you to report incidents to act effectively. Text 61016 for assistance, as every report aids our understanding of the situation. Enough is enough." Soma Sara, CEO at Everyone’s Invited, concluded, "For too long, sexual harassment on public transport has been normalized, leading women and girls to feel they must tolerate unwanted comments and intimidation. This announcement underscores that harassment should not be seen as acceptable or trivial. The introduction of standards for train operators reinforces our collective responsibility to tackle violence against women and girls. Long-term change necessitates addressing the root causes of harassment through education and social reform. Safety in public spaces is a fundamental right." For further information, you can refer to [GOV.UK](https://www.gov.uk/government/news/government-and-rail-industry-say-enough-to-sexual-harassment) and [Rape Crisis](https://www.rapecrisis.org.uk/). For more insights, visit our site at [www.globemigrant.com](http://www.globemigrant.com/) or check out [www.globemigrant.com/articles](http://www.globemigrant.com/articles).

Rail Industry Takes Stand Against Sexual Harassment Now

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