Clampdown on drunkenness proves effective

Initiatives to prevent rowdy and drunken passengers from boarding trains have succeeded in making passengers feel safer, according to a report by Transport Focus.

Key findings of the report Passenger perceptions of personal security on the railways include: anti-social behaviour continues to the biggest cause for concern over personal security for passengers; a visible staff presence reassures passengers and more staff are needed after dark; targeted and time-limited bans on alcohol that are properly enforced are effective.

“We’ve found that actions taken by the rail industry over recent years to make passengers feel safer have worked,” said Transport Focus Chief Executive Anthony Smith.

“Naturally some initiatives have been more successful than others. A visible staff presence has stood out as really reassuring passengers. The industry must build on the findings of its report by continuing its focus on making passengers feel safe.”