Welcome to Yorkshire
Published on July 23rd, 2026
•Safety is a growing concern for women travelling alone on trains, and a recent survey has highlighted significant issues at railway stations across Yorkshire and the Humber. Conducted by Soroptimist International Great Britain and Ireland (SIGBI), a charity dedicated to improving the lives of women and girls, the study found alarming gaps in safety measures at various stations in the region.
Survey Findings
The survey examined safety standards at 373 railway stations across the UK, revealing that many stations in Yorkshire and the Humber are lacking essential safety features. Some of the key findings include:
55% of stations lacked visible security measures.
Only 10% of stations were staffed at all times.
48% reported no uniformed staff presence.
Nearly 48% of station car parks were poorly lit or isolated.
Specific stations in Yorkshire raised particular concerns. For example, Filey station was described by observers as "grim" and "scruffy," with no railway staff present to assist passengers. Other stations, like Low Moor in Bradford, were noted as permanently unstaffed, while Church Fenton and Ulleskelf had emergency phones removed without replacement, leaving travellers with limited means of seeking help in case of an emergency.
Wider Context
These local findings reflect a troubling national trend of declining staff presence and inconsistent safety measures across the UK rail network. SIGBI's President, Gillie O’Rourke, emphasised that “these key measures, which can help women feel more secure, remain inconsistent, patchy, and mixed at best.” This lack of attention to safety leaves women increasingly vulnerable when using public transport. For over 30 years, SIGBI has campaigned for safer railways. Their efforts began in 1996 with an investigation called ‘The Future of the Railways’, which sought to improve personal safety on trains. This initiative was sparked by a serious incident involving a Soroptimist member who was attacked on a train in London.
Call to Action
In response to the survey's findings, SIGBI is advocating for urgent improvements in safety measures across the rail network.
They are calling for:
Introduction of minimum safety standards for all stations, particularly during the evening.
Reliable emergency help points and monitored CCTV.
Better lighting and clear emergency contact information.
Greater accountability, with visible signage indicating who is responsible for safety.
Lindsay Green, SIGBI’s Programme Director, highlighted the urgency of the situation, stating:
“The timing of the survey’s relaunch happened to coincide with the British Transport Police’s last report, which stated that violence against women and girls on British railways had risen by more than 50% since 2021. Clearly, more needs to be done, and urgently.”
Positive Examples
While many stations are lacking in safety provisions, some, like Harrogate and Shipley, have been noted as examples of good practice. These stations have implemented several safety features that could serve as models for others to follow. Improving safety at railway stations is essential not only for women travelling alone but for all passengers who use the rail network. The presence of staff, well-maintained facilities, and clear safety information can significantly enhance the travel experience and ensure that everyone feels secure during their journey.
Community Involvement
In addition to advocating for changes at the governmental level, SIGBI is actively engaging with communities through initiatives like ‘Bystander Awareness’ training. This training aims to empower individuals to identify and prevent violence against women and girls in public spaces, including train stations. As the issue of safety on public transport continues to be a pressing concern, it is crucial for both the rail companies and local communities to collaborate in creating a safer environment for all passengers. The findings from SIGBI's survey serve as a vital reminder of the work that still needs to be done to protect women and ensure that everyone can travel with confidence. For those interested in further details or the full report, it is available on SIGBI's website, providing insights into the state of railway safety and recommendations for improvement.
