Victims of crime on London's public transport network are not coming forward to report incidents due to a combination of "indifferent staff" and a reporting system that is described as "fragmented" and "confusing," according to a new report from London TravelWatch.
The travel watchdog found that while four out of five people would report an incident of hate or sexual harassment on London transport, only two out of five who experience such an event actually come forward. The report indicates that transport staff's perceived indifference and a lack of bystander action can lead victims to believe their experiences are not serious enough to report.
Victims told the watchdog that station staff can be absent, inaccessible, or physically separated from passengers. Some reported instances of staff appearing disinterested when approached. Another issue highlighted is that announcements regarding reporting suspicious activity often focus on threats like bombs, rather than mentioning hate crimes or sexual assaults.
When victims do attempt to report incidents, they are often redirected to different departments or told to call other numbers. Some receive automated responses instead of personal updates, and many do not receive any follow-up, leaving them without justice or closure.
In 2025, 1,724 hate crime offenses were recorded across the Transport for London (TfL) network, though research suggests this number is significantly lower than the actual occurrence. Since 2023, 41 percent of Londoners have experienced unwanted behavior on the network, with antisocial behavior and verbal harassment being the most common forms.
The report identified members of the LGBTQ+ community, individuals aged 18-34, women, and disabled people as being disproportionately affected.
Recent undercover investigations and previous reports have highlighted the extent of the problem. In one instance, a young woman secretly filmed her experiences on the network, encountering verbal sexual harassment multiple times and a physical assault during day and night journeys. A March report from the London Assembly described "unacceptable" levels of violence against women and girls on the capital's transport system. In 2025, 4,593 sex-based offenses against women and girls were recorded, with only about 3 percent leading to a charge or summons. Suspects were not identified in 58 percent of cases.
Notable cases include the jailing of Salman Yousaf for eight sexual assaults and one count of outraging public decency on the Night Tube, and Craig Anderson, who was jailed after sexually assaulting four women and stalking another. Prosecutors noted Anderson "did not take no for an answer."
London TravelWatch recommends replacing the current fragmented reporting process with a streamlined system that prioritizes victim safety and consistent support. The report also calls for staff training to provide a "proactive first response" and for staff to act as "compassionate guides" through the victim's experience, including providing empathetic updates and closure information.
Siwan Hayward, TfL's Director of Security, Policing and Enforcement, stated that TfL is working with the police to strengthen reporting and support investigations. She noted that all TfL stations are covered by CCTV, and staff use body-worn cameras to provide evidence. TfL also funds a dedicated British Transport Police taskforce to help apprehend offenders. Hayward affirmed that tackling violence against women and girls is an absolute priority and that TfL is determined to make the transport network safer.