Transport Workers Violence, Abuse and the Need for Real Protection Pt.2

Just like NHS, retail workers and social care staff, transport workers across the public transport system are facing a growing epidemic of violence.

This rise is being driven by cuts to staffing, reductions in dedicated transport policing, and increasing passenger frustration.

The rail trade union RMT reported in December 2025 that violence and aggression against rail staff had surged sharply over the previous year. Across the reporting period to August 2025, overall offences rose by nearly 13 percent, with 2,299 incidents recorded between June and August alone. This represented a 17 percent increase on the same period in 2024.

These figures mirror patterns seen across the wider transport network, where frontline staff on buses, trams and stations report escalating levels of verbal abuse, threats, and physical assault.

Escalating Risk Across Public Transport

Research published by the Safer Transport Alliance in late 2025 found that more than one in three public transport workers had experienced verbal abuse in the previous twelve months, while one in six had faced physical aggression.

Bus workers in particular reported rising levels of assault linked to fare disputes, timetable pressures and lone working, especially on evening and night routes. Transport for London’s own data for 2024–25 recorded the highest ever rate of abuse incidents against bus drivers and station staff, with reports continuing to climb into 2025.

These findings align with broader concerns examined by the union around violence against frontline workers across multiple sectors.

Isolation, Cuts and Reduced Policing

Much of this violence occurs when staff are isolated. Rail workers are frequently stationed alone late at night on unstaffed platforms, while bus drivers operate vehicles without onboard support and with limited access to immediate police assistance.

Cuts to British Transport Police presence on key routes have further weakened deterrence and reinforced the perception that offenders can act without consequence. This erosion of visible enforcement has left workers feeling exposed and unsupported.

The impact of staffing reductions mirrors similar issues faced in healthcare and retail environments, where lone working and service pressures heighten risk.

Union Calls for Stronger Legal Protection

The Workers of England Union supports the RMT’s renewed call for a standalone criminal offence for assaulting transport workers. Enhanced protections, similar to those afforded to emergency workers, are long overdue.

Frontline transport staff are often the first point of contact for public frustration caused by delays, overcrowding and systemic failures beyond their control. Without adequate staffing levels and visible policing, volatile situations escalate rapidly.

The result is a working environment where safety cannot be guaranteed and where essential workers face unacceptable levels of harm simply for doing their jobs.

Statement from the Workers of England Union

Stephen Morris, General Secretary of the Workers of England Union, issued a clear message to members:

“Where employers fail to act, the Workers of England Union will help its members who want to take it further. If you have been assaulted, harassed or abused by a member of the public, a colleague or a manager, you are not alone.

The WEU is here to stand with you, to challenge unsafe practices, and to support you in taking the matter further with your employer. Contact the Workers of England Union office immediately if you have experienced any form of violence or abuse at work. We will make sure your voice is heard and your employment rights are defended.”