South Western Railway expand use of body worn cameras for staff
The company says it's to tackle a rise in assaults and abuse
Last updated 16th Sep 2025
South Western Railway (SWR) are warning of an "unacceptable rise" in assaults and abuse against its staff, as the it expands the use of body-worn video cameras.
SWR says that so far this year they've recorded more than two assaults every day against colleagues across its network, including violent attacks and verbal threats, while the number of reported incidents of violent and public order offences have doubled between 2020-21 and 2024-25, according to British Transport Police (BTP).
Following an initial trial in 2021, SWR has introduced body-worn video cameras for colleagues in customer-facing roles, such as train guards and gateline assistants.
The cameras, which are activated by the wearer and capture 30 seconds of footage prior to activation, can deter assaults and other anti-social behaviour as well as collect video and audio evidence for use in legal proceedings.
Jane Lupson, Safety and Security Director for South Western Railway, says: “The rise in abuse directed against our colleagues, including daily assaults, is totally unacceptable and will not be tolerated.
“Keeping people safe on our railway is always our number one priority, not least our colleagues who serve our customers with care every day.
“The introduction of body-worn video cameras will help deter anyone thinking of abusing a colleague and help prosecute those who do.
“We hope this striking new campaign will remind potential perpetrators of the consequences of abuse, for colleagues and for them.”