Northern Trains Empower Staff to Combat Unwanted Sexual Behaviour

Northern establishes a specialist network across key cities to support victims of unwanted sexual behaviour on the railway, aiming to enhance safety and awareness among employees and passengers.

 

Northern, a prominent UK train operator, has taken a significant step forward in enhancing the safety and security of its passengers by creating a dedicated network of staff trained to support individuals affected by unwanted sexual behaviour (USB) on the railway. Positioned in strategic locations including Blackpool, Darlington, Leeds, Manchester, Newcastle, Preston, and York, this initiative aims to provide guidance and assistance to both colleagues and passengers experiencing USB, directing them towards available support services and encouraging the reporting of such incidents to law enforcement authorities.

This network of specially trained employees is part of Northern's broader effort to promote a culture of safety and intervention, empowering all customer-facing staff to recognize and address instances of USB. By disseminating information on support mechanisms and highlighting the consequences faced by offenders, Northern aspires to foster a railway environment where everyone feels secure and supported.

The formation of this specialized network underscores Northern's commitment to tackling USB, a campaign that has seen collaborations with various community groups, including an awareness initiative with students from Bradford City Community Foundation in September 2023. Kerry Peters, Northern's regional director, emphasizes the importance of a safe and respectful railway environment, praising the volunteers within the network for their role in striving towards the elimination of USB and enhancing the overall safety for all railway users.

Passengers and employees are encouraged to report any instances of USB or related anti-social behavior directly to the British Transport Police through text, phone calls, or the innovative 'Railway Guardian' app, which offers a comprehensive platform for reporting, journey sharing, and accessing safety resources. This app is readily available for download on both Google Play and the Apple App Store, representing a crucial tool in Northern's strategy to ensure the well-being of its community.

Operating as the UK's second-largest train service provider, Northern manages an extensive network that includes 2,500 daily services across more than 500 stations in the North of England, affirming its dedication to offering a safe and reliable transportation experience for its passengers.