Rail operator in the South spends millions on safety for staff and passengers

Monday, 25 November 2024 06:00

Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR), one of the South's leading rail operators, is investing £2.5 million in a significant safety initiative to better protect its staff and passengers. This move comes in response to a concerning rise in incidents of verbal and physical abuse faced by railway workers.

As part of this investment, GTR is equipping 1,500 members of staff with new body-worn cameras, aimed at deterring abusive behavior and providing clear evidence when incidents occur. In addition to the cameras, the company is doubling the number of Travel Safe Officers across its network. These officers play a critical role in ensuring the safety of both passengers and staff, as well as maintaining order and offering support in challenging situations.

Govia Thameslink operates some of the busiest rail lines in the region, including Southern, Gatwick Express, Thameslink, and Great Northern. The company was awarded a new National Rail Contract in 2022, ensuring it will continue to manage these services until at least April 1, 2025. This contract emphasizes the importance of maintaining high standards of customer service and safety, areas GTR is focusing on through its recent investments.

The safety initiative highlights GTR’s commitment to addressing the challenges its staff face on a daily basis while improving the overall travel experience for passengers.

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