A recent study by Soroptimist International Great Britain and Ireland has revealed alarming safety issues for women travelling on Britain’s rail networks. The investigation found that over half of the UK train stations lack basic safety measures, disproportionately affecting female passengers. Key concerns include inadequate staffing, poor lighting, and insufficient emergency help points, which contribute to a pervasive sense of insecurity.
The findings indicate that 55% of surveyed stations had no visible security presence, and only 10% were staffed at all times. This lack of safety infrastructure has led many women to avoid travelling by train, especially during the evening. The study highlights a significant gender safety gap, raising urgent questions about accountability and the protection of female passengers.
Lindsay Green, Programme Director at SIGBI, noted that many women are deterred from using trains due to fears of harassment and inadequate support. The report coincides with a troubling rise in violence against women on railways, which has increased by over 50% since 2021. This trend underscores the need for immediate action to enhance safety measures across the rail network.
As the government announces funding for improved CCTV connectivity at stations, the effectiveness of these measures remains to be seen. The ongoing safety concerns call for a comprehensive review of policies to ensure that all passengers, particularly women, can travel without fear.
Source: GB News
