South Western Railway has begun rolling out body-worn video cameras for frontline staff after more than two assaults a day were recorded this year across its network.
The train company says violent incidents and threats have doubled since twenty twenty-one, with guards and gateline assistants often targeted. British Transport Police figures confirm the sharp rise in public order offences and assaults.
The new cameras record thirty seconds before being switched on, allowing them to capture evidence for police investigations and court proceedings. South Western Railway says they should also help to deter abuse in the first place.
A poster campaign has been launched to back up the move. The posters show situations from the perspective of staff wearing cameras and highlight the consequences for offenders, including arrest, trial and prison.
Safety and Security Director Jane Lupson said the abuse was “totally unacceptable” and that keeping people safe on the railway was the company’s priority. She added that the cameras will both protect staff and help to bring perpetrators to justice.
The company has already trialled the technology and introduced a new app so incidents can be reported more quickly, with details shared directly with British Transport Police.
South Western Railway says the measures are part of its wider work to support staff safety. It has also achieved the top score for two years running in the British Transport Police Safeguarding on Rail scheme, which rates how well train operators protect colleagues and customers.
Who are we? We're building a new independent free news source for BCP and east Dorset, with fewer ads, less clutter, and no filler articles. And we'd love your support. Please help us grow locally by letting your friends know about us on social media, and have a listen to Bournemouth One online and on DAB for all your local news, traffic, jobs, weather, coastal info and more.
Register below for free regular updates via email.