The government and major figures within the UK rail industry have announced the launch of a new campaign designed to combat sexual harassment across the country's railway network. Titled 'Enough', the initiative seeks to foster a safer environment for both passengers and staff, encouraging the reporting of incidents and providing support for those affected.
This concerted effort comes as part of a broader drive to enhance safety and accessibility on public transport. The campaign will utilise various channels, including digital platforms and on-board announcements, to raise awareness of what constitutes sexual harassment and to clearly outline how individuals can report such incidents. It also aims to reassure victims that their reports will be taken seriously and acted upon.
The Department for Transport has been working alongside railway operators and British Transport Police (BTP) to develop the campaign's messaging and strategy. Statistics from the BTP have previously highlighted the prevalence of unwanted sexual behaviour on the rail network, underscoring the necessity for such a focused intervention. The 'Enough' campaign is intended to complement existing measures, such as increased CCTV coverage and BTP patrols, by empowering individuals to speak out.
Transport Secretary, Mark Harper, emphasised the government's commitment to ensuring that everyone feels safe when travelling by train. He stated that there is 'no place' for sexual harassment on the rail network and that the campaign is a clear signal of intent to tackle the issue head-on. The rail industry has also pledged its full support, recognising the importance of creating a welcoming and secure environment for all users.
The Labour Party's Shadow Transport Secretary responded by welcoming any initiative that improves passenger safety, but also called for a comprehensive approach that addresses understaffing and cuts to services, which they argue can exacerbate feelings of insecurity for passengers. They urged the government to ensure that this campaign is backed by sufficient resources for enforcement and victim support.