Reports of sexual assaults and harassment on trains have risen by more than a third over the past 10 years, according to data requested by a BBC investigation. There were 2,661 incidents reported across England, Scotland and Wales last year, where one in 10 were children – with some younger than 13.
Data gathered by the BBC via a Freedom of Information request to the British Transport Police found a 37% increase in reports of sexual offences across England, Scotland and Wales since 2015. Rail companies have a zero tolerance approach towards sexual harassment. Sexual harassment isn’t always physical and can include behaviours such as intrusive staring, unwanted questioning and catcalling. If you see or experience sexual harassment taking place, report it to British Transport Police by texting 61016 or, in an emergency, calling 999. Depending on the situation, there may also be ways in which you can safely intervene – for example, by asking if the person wants to swap seats, or asking a distracting question of the perpetrator – for example “What is the time”. Only do this if you feel safe.
Free Travel To Refuges
On another point National Rail offers help to Survivors getting to a Refuge. Rail to Refuge is a joint initiative between rail companies and Women’s Aid, in which train operators provide free tickets to survivors travelling to refuges. With financial control often being a key issue for people in this situation, free train tickets for them and their children can make their escape possible.
Tickets can be arranged for those who need them via Women’s Aid and their members. Once they have a place at a refuge secured, their tickets will be sent directly or can be collected. Survivors can then travel safely to the refuge, with no questions asked.
(Source: www.nationalrail.co.uk/help-and-assistance/violence-against-women-and-girls)