Local Railway Staff to Get Body-Worn Cameras
South Western Railway acts as number of attacks doubles
Stuart Broad at the launch of a new train last November. Picture: SWR
September 15, 2025
South Western Railway (SWR) has announced the expansion of body-worn video cameras for frontline staff in response to a sharp rise in assaults and abuse across its network. The move comes as British Transport Police (BTP) report that incidents of violent and public order offences have doubled between 2020–21 and 2024–25.
According to SWR, more than two assaults per day have been recorded so far this year, affecting train guards, gateline assistants, and other customer-facing roles. The incidents range from verbal threats to physical violence, with serious consequences for both staff wellbeing and operational continuity.
The cameras, which record 30 seconds of footage prior to activation, are intended to deter abusive behaviour and provide evidential support for legal proceedings. SWR has also launched a new poster campaign depicting real-life scenarios captured on camera, highlighting the emotional toll on staff and the legal consequences for perpetrators.
Jane Lupson, Safety and Security Director for SWR, described the rise in abuse as “totally unacceptable,” adding that the cameras would help protect staff and support prosecutions. “Keeping people safe on our railway is always our number one priority,” she said.
No recent public reports have detailed assaults on station staff specifically at local stations such as Chiswick, Putney, Brentford, Kew Bridge, or Isleworth. However, SWR’s decision to expand body-worn camera use suggests a network-wide concern, particularly in areas with high passenger volumes and interchange activity.
The rise in abuse mirrors similar trends in other public-facing sectors, including healthcare and retail. SWR’s response includes not only technology but also improved reporting tools, such as a new app that allows staff to share incident details directly with BTP.
The operator has also received a 100% rating in BTP’s Safeguarding on Rail scheme for two consecutive years, reflecting its commitment to protecting both staff and passengers.
The initiative is part of a broader strategy to ensure that railway staff can carry out their duties without fear of harm.
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