Greater Anglia is pleased to announce the introduction of Transport Safety Officers (TSOs) aimed at enhancing safety on the rail network in Essex, as part of a joint project.
Six Transport Safety Officers will carry out patrols between Southend Victoria and Shenfield, Shenfield and Colchester, and Colchester and Clacton-on-Sea.
This pilot, developed in collaboration with Thurrock Council, Southend-on-Sea City Council, and Essex County Council, has received funding from the Department for Transport, totalling £490,000.
The Transport Safety Officers will work in close coordination with transport operators in Essex, including Greater Anglia, c2c, Ensign Buses, and other law enforcement agencies, including the British Transport Police and Essex Police. They will patrol targeted routes and locations, address anti-social behaviour, and promote safety for all passengers.
While the primary focus of the Transport Safety Officers will be to engage and educate, they will also possess enforcement powers, including the authority to issue fixed penalty notices for specific anti-social behaviours.
Matt Wakefield, Greater Anglia’s Head of Safety, Security and Sustainability, said: “We are very pleased to welcome TSOs to our network. Although the railway is a safe place, we are always supportive of any initiative which further improves passengers’ safety and overall journeys.
“TSOs are committed to reducing anti-social behaviour and Violence Against Women and Girls by working with other established agencies, fostering a safe, inclusive environment for all.
“The TSOs will work alongside our existing partners including Land Sheriffs and the Rail Pastors, who help vulnerable people during their time of need. They will patrol throughout the day and into the evening, visiting stations, boarding trains, and helping anyone who is vulnerable, distressed, or in need of some assistance.”
Image credit: Greater Anglia
