A new Transport for London campaign will aim to encourage Londoners to look out for one another when using the public transport network, setting out clear guidance on how customers can safely intervene if they witness incidents of sexual harassment.
Transport for London, in partnership with the Rail Delivery Group (RDG), British Transport Police (BTP), Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) and City of London Police has launched a new campaign to encourage a culture of active bystanders on public transport.
Through the campaign, TfL hopes to inspire Londoners to look out for others by learning to recognise the signs of sexual harassment, offering support to a person who has been targeted, and reporting any incidents.
Sexual harassment is a form of violence, most often directed against women and girls in public places.
Seb Dance, London's Deputy Mayor for Transport, said:
"Everyone should feel safe and be safe at all times when travelling around London. That is why I welcome TfL launching this new campaign which will help Londoners to look out for each other when travelling around the city, setting out how people can safely support one another and highlighting how to report any incidents on TfL's network. The Mayor and I are clear that the safety of women and girls is a key priority and TfL takes a zero-tolerance approach to all forms of sexual harassment on London's public transport network. This campaign is an important part of the Mayor's drive to build a safer London for everyone.
Amy Lamé, London's Night Czar, said:
"Well over a million Londoners work at night and rely on our public transport network after dark. London's incredible array of hospitality and cultural venues make the capital one of the world's most vibrant cities around the clock. This is why it is so important we all work together to ensure London is safe and welcoming at night."
Claire Barnett, Executive Director, UN Women UK, said:
"After years of calling for safe spaces now, I am so inspired and hopeful to see our partner TfL stepping up and addressing the root cause of sexual harassment - the unacceptable behaviours that we tolerate as a society on a daily basis. We hope that this campaign will be a conversation starter, helping people to speak to each other about grey areas and positive behaviours, reach out to learn more about what they can do, and take action now."