Violence against London transport workers is surging, with staff facing unprecedented levels of assault and harassment while carrying out their duties, the RMT union has warned ahead of a crucial Transport for London safety summit.
The trade union reports its members are experiencing a worrying increase in attacks, threats and abuse whilst working on the capital's bus, Tube and rail networks. The RMT blames the escalating violence on understaffing, cuts to station personnel and reduced British Transport Police presence across services.
RMT General Secretary Mick Lynch said transport workers who played a vital role during the pandemic now face unprecedented aggression. "Staff should not have to contend with violence as part of their job," he stated, calling for robust action from TfL to protect its workforce. The union wants immediate measures including increased staffing levels, greater BTP patrols and improved support for violence victims.
The crisis threatens both worker safety and passenger services. Fear amongst staff could damage morale, worsen recruitment problems and hit service reliability. Rising anti-social behaviour also risks deterring passengers from using public transport, undermining efforts to promote sustainable travel in London.
At the upcoming TfL safety summit, unions, management and enforcement agencies will tackle the issue together. The RMT plans to present detailed proposals and demand concrete commitments for effective safety strategies protecting frontline employees. The union wants tangible improvements, not just discussions.
Mayor Sadiq Khan, who chairs TfL, has previously pledged to make public transport safer for both passengers and staff. Transport unions and the public will closely watch the summit's outcomes to ensure promises become practical changes on London's transport network.