British Transport Police (BTP) stations across the UK may be facing closure just as attacks on rail passengers reach record highs. Officials have implemented a hiring freeze and warned of a looming budget shortfall that could see a “reduced presence” on the rail network.
Soaring Assault Rates on Trains
According to the Office of Rail and Road, assaults against members of the public and rail staff rocketed to 9,542 incidents in 2023–24—up 17% on the previous year. While BTP notes that fuller trains post-Covid and easier online reporting might play a part in those alarming figures, assaults are now 50% higher than before the pandemic.
- Three-quarters involve harassment or common assault
- Rising numbers coincide with significantly increased train usage
Budget Freeze Means Fewer Officers
The BTP says it needs more funding to keep up with growing demand, but instead got a modest 4.6% budget increase—less than half what it requested. BTP Chief Constable Lucy D’Orsi explains:
“The funding settlement… leaves us with an £8.5m shortfall. Inevitably, we’re going to be a smaller organisation, with a reduced presence across England, Scotland and Wales.”
Up to 17 stations could close, potentially leaving entire regions—like that north-of-Preston-to-Scotland stretch—without a dedicated transport police station.
“Vulnerable People at Risk”
Labour union TSSA, whose members include BTP staff, warns that nearly 300 jobs may go from a force of around 3,000. TSSA leader Maryam Eslamdoust says fewer officers could jeopardise the safety of women and girls in particular. Meanwhile, railway operators fear slower response times to trespassers, suicide attempts, and theft, which could trigger major service delays.
Government’s Response
A government spokesperson emphasised that BTP funding remains a priority:
“No one should have to experience abuse or harassment on our transport networks… Passenger safety is our top priority.”
Passengers can report issues by texting 61016 or using the Railway Guardian app. However, with budgets squeezed and closures looming, the future of the BTP’s frontline presence remains uncertain.
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