Rail passenger watchdog Transport Focus has called for train operators to play fair with passengers and introduce a series of revenue protection initiatives to improve passenger experience.
The recommendations, which can be found in the link below, will be the focus of its ongoing work as it works towards an environment in which passengers can travel with confidence.
The introduction of a ‘Yellow Card’ system, a Railcard Database, and a review of the guidance underpinning Penalty Fares are just some of the ways Transport Focus believes passengers can be offered a fairer approach to clawing back lost revenue to reinvest in the railway.
The group notes that the Yellow Card system has is employed by some companies but would be most effective if the system was operated nationally with information accessible by all operators.
It also sttes that a central digital record of all railcards issued, and that can be accessed on
demand, will ensure that passengers’ eligibility for the relevant discount can speedily and easily be checked, even if they have forgotten or are unable to access their railcard.
Transport Focus’ call for change is timely, with the Department for Transport asking the Office of Rail and Road to run a review into train operator’s revenue protection practices. This includes the use of penalty fares and prosecution.
Transport Focus will be sharing its views as part of the review and urges passengers to do the same.
The full report can be viewed here: Revenue Protection – Recommendations – January 2025
Image credit: Transport Focus
