RMT Calls for Safer Working Conditions for Transport Staff at Scottish Parliament Event

Transport union RMT hosted an Action Against Assaults event at the Scottish Parliament on Wednesday, 11 February, demanding stronger protections for railway workers, including safe staffing levels and an end to lone working.

The campaign brings together MSPs, unions, and community groups to address the rising levels of violence and abuse faced by public transport staff and passengers. Front-line workers, many of whom are women, continue to experience verbal threats, harassment, and assaults while performing their duties.

Earlier this year, RMT’s survey of women transport workers in Scotland revealed that 70% had faced workplace violence in the past year, with 85% reporting repeated incidents. The survey highlighted verbal abuse as the most common form, followed by physical threats, and found that over 20% had experienced sexual harassment. Lone working was a major factor, with nearly 60% of affected workers alone at the time. Three-quarters of respondents said workplace violence is increasing.

These findings mirror wider trends. A BBC investigation last year reported a 37% rise in recorded sexual offences on UK railways since 2015, and Scottish Government research in 2023 showed that women feel significantly safer when staff are present at stations, ticket offices, and onboard trains. Yet staffing levels remain inconsistent, and funding shortfalls for the British Transport Police have reduced officer presence in Scotland.

RMT General Secretary Eddie Dempsey said: “Assaults on transport workers are rising, violence is becoming normalised, and women are bearing the brunt. No one should face threats, abuse, or harassment just for doing their job. This is a workplace safety issue, and it demands urgent political action.”

The event will take place inside the Scottish Parliament at 12.45pm, followed by a photocall at 1.45pm outside. The union is urging political parties to commit to concrete measures to protect transport workers ahead of this year’s Scottish Parliament elections.