Crime solutions
Tackling crime on public transport
This report details investment and initiatives the Department for Transport has introduced in order to reduce the fear of crime and personal security of passengers travelling on public transport.
Title: Tackling crime on public transport
Author:
Department of Transport
Date published: November 2004
Number of pages: 3
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A national survey carried out in April 2004 showed that actual incidences of crimes against passengers are extremely rare and that 64% of those asked thought security on public transport was either 'good' or 'very good'.
However, the same survey found that 11.5% more journeys would be made on public transport if passengers felt they were more secure. This is because people's perception of crime can have an impact on travel habits and may dissuade vulnerable members of society from travelling altogether.
The concern over personal security does not just include the time spent on a bus or train but also includes the apprehension of waiting at a platform or bus stop and its surrounding environment and the intimidation of witnessing anti social behaviour, criminal damage and graffiti.
Perceptions and experiences of crime on public transport
The national survey found that:
Men were more likely to be a victim of violence or robbery and were fearful of other groups of men.
Women, who were more likely to experience harassment or sexual assault, are more concerned about the behaviour of lone men.
Younger people are more likely to experience being threatened or stared at in a hostile or intimidating manner.
Ethnic minority passengers felt further exposed to the wider experience of racial harassment and therefore likely to have concerns, but were less likely to report any incidents.
Disabled people felt particularly vulnerable to the threat of crime where access to transport is limited or via poorly lit, isolated routes.
What made passengers feel more secure?
People waiting for or travelling by bus felt more reassured by CCTV surveillance, while those who travelled by train were reassured by the presence of staff on the platform or collecting tickets on board the train. In both cases, passengers said that the provision of Help Points, clear signage and improved lighting was particularly welcome.
Information about services and delays via message boards and public address systems also improve people's comfort.
People often feel at their most vulnerable during the walk home from the bus or train - especially at night, so having local street maps, clear signage, taxi ranks or private hire operators with public premises nearby helps to reassure passengers.
Working in a partnership
Creating safer travelling environments requires a commitment not just from the police and transport operators but also local authorities, town centre managers, local businesses and the public themselves.
The department and local transport authorities are involved in a number of initiatives and advisory panels that aim to look at the problems of crime from a broad, longer-term viewpoint:
Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnerships
These provide a unified approach for the police, local authorities and other stakeholders, such as public transport operators. These partnerships undertake local audits of reported crimes to develop strategies specific to their area.
The Secure Stations Scheme
This scheme is a national accreditation that recognises rail stations that have reached a required standard of passenger and staff security. There are currently 160 stations accredited.
The development of 'secure routes'
Improvements are made to the physical and social environment - transport interchanges, taxi ranks, CCTV, pedestrian and walking facilities - to help people feel more in control of their journey.
Example:
Travelling to School: an action plan, is an example where cycle paths, flexible bus services and improved street lighting and sight lines on pedestrian paths have helped to create safer routes from schools to local bus and train stations.
Safer Travel on Buses and Coaches Panel (STOP)
This panel looks at ways to combat assaults, anti-social behaviour and vandalism on vehicles and property.
The Department for Transport also issues guidance to operators on improving personal safety for passengers and staff, as well as creating tighter licensing regulations - on minicab firms for example - to maintain good services.
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Last update: 04 May 2005