Northern, the UK’s second-largest train operator, has launched a campaign emphasizing the importance of treating its staff with kindness and respect. The initiative comes in response to a staggering number of instances where employees have been subjected to verbal abuse and horrific threats from passengers. In one particularly disturbing example, an angry traveler wished cancer on a staff member’s children, showcasing the extreme levels of hostility that some individuals are willing to display.
This behavior will not be tolerated, Northern has stressed, and instances of abuse will be reported to the authorities. The company is committed to ensuring that its employees can work in a safe and respectful environment, free from the fear of intimidation or harm. One Bolton commuter expressed their outrage at the behavior of some passengers, stating that while frequent delays can be frustrating, it would never cross their mind to abuse staff members who are simply trying to do their job.
The commuter went on to say that they have witnessed passengers being rude to Northern staff, which makes them angry, and emphasized that there is no excuse for such behavior. They welcomed Northern’s decision to take action to protect its staff and passengers, acknowledging that the messages of abuse are beyond horrific. This sentiment is shared by many, who recognize that the vast majority of train staff are dedicated professionals who do not deserve to be treated with disrespect or violence.
A spokesperson for Northern reiterated the company’s commitment to providing a safe and respectful environment for both its staff and passengers. They acknowledged that delayed trains can be frustrating, but emphasized that the level of abuse directed towards staff, whether in person or online, is disgusting and simply not acceptable. The spokesperson urged passengers to treat Northern’s teams with respect, even when things are not going right, and assured that the company will do everything it can to help those who do.
In a positive development, Northern revealed that the number of dangerous attacks on its trains decreased by almost 90 percent in the previous 12 months, with the number of recorded incidents falling from 69 to just eight in 2023. This significant reduction is attributed to the company’s investments in safety and security measures, including the installation of additional CCTV cameras and body-worn camera kits.
Northern has added a further 600 new CCTV cameras to the more than 1,000 that already monitor its station estate, significantly increasing the chances of perpetrators being caught on camera. The company has also installed 7,000 HD CCTV cameras on board its fleet of trains and invested £1.7m in the roll-out of more than 1,000 extra body-worn camera kits, taking the total number now in operation to 1,300. British Transport Police has access to all the footage and can use it in criminal prosecutions, providing a powerful deterrent to potential offenders.
In addition to these technological measures, dozens of undercover and plain-clothed police officers and Northern’s travel safety officers regularly patrol services across the North of England. This visible presence helps to reassure passengers and staff, while also providing an effective response to any incidents that may occur. The collaboration between Northern and British Transport Police is a key factor in maintaining a safe and secure environment for everyone using the train network.
The “be kind” campaign is an important reminder that train staff are human beings who deserve to be treated with respect and dignity. They are not just employees, but individuals with families, friends, and feelings, who are simply trying to do their job to the best of their ability. By promoting a culture of kindness and respect, Northern aims to create a positive and supportive environment for both its staff and passengers.
The impact of abuse and violence on train staff should not be underestimated. It can lead to stress, anxiety, and a range of other mental health issues, which can have a profound effect on an individual’s well-being and quality of life. By taking a zero-tolerance approach to abuse, Northern is sending a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated, and that it will do everything in its power to protect its staff and passengers.
In conclusion, Northern’s “be kind” campaign is a timely reminder of the importance of treating others with respect and dignity. The company’s commitment to providing a safe and secure environment for its staff and passengers is commendable, and its investments in safety and security measures are clearly paying off. By working together, we can create a positive and supportive culture that promotes kindness, respect, and understanding, and helps to make the train network a safer and more enjoyable place for everyone. As the spokesperson for Northern so eloquently put it, “We are human. Please give our teams respect even if things aren’t going right. We’ll do everything we can to help those who do.” This message is a powerful reminder of the importance of kindness and respect, and one that we would all do well to remember.