To publicise British Transport Police‘s ‘Railway Guardian’ app., c2c has adorned one of its new trains in eye-catching graphics that promote the app. including a QR code to scan to download it.

The Railway Guardian app. was launched summer of 2022 as a safety tool, which allows users to discreetly report to British Transport Police any crimes or concerns they have on trains or at stations.

The app forms a key part of the British Transport Police’s strategy to ensure passengers are safe and secure while they travel on the rail network.

Reports submitted via the app are reviewed by contact handlers in real-time. If they consider the report is necessary, officers will be deployed and may meet the train at the next station and speak to station staff to gather intelligence.

In cases where an officer is not deployed, intelligence from the report may still be recorded by the force as a crucial part of planning proactive efforts to detect offenders on the railway.

The app. underpins British Transport Police’s priority in changing the behaviour of offenders and bystanders and also provides examples of unacceptable behaviours and how witnesses can help.

Operating on c2c’s popular London to Southend-on-Sea route, the graphics are designed to promote the app. and encourage more passengers to download and use it. They feature the logo of the Railway Guardian app. and a clear call-to-action that invites passengers to download the app. to help keep the railway safe.

Railway Guardian can be downloaded onto any device via the Apple App Store or Android Play Store or downloaded here.

c2c’s Head of Revenue Protection and Security, Iain Palmer said, “The safety and security of our customers is our top priority. By promoting the BTP’s Railway Guardian app in such an eye-catching way, we hope to encourage more passengers to play an active role in keeping the railway safe and secure.

“This project also helps to further cement our partnership working with the British Transport Police. Since its launch, we have encouraged more than 500 people to download this at our Safeguarding and Security events. Having the app so visible on a train, I hope we can encourage this number to grow even further. Having used it myself, it’s well designed and easy to use, and I would urge everyone to download it,” he added.

British Transport Police’s Detective Chief Inspector Nia Mellor said, “Whether you see it or experience it, you can report any type of behaviour that makes you feel uncomfortable. Sadly, incidents such as sexual harassment often take place in front of other passengers. If you see this type of behaviour, you can help by reporting it to British Transport Police.

“Remember that what feels like a small action can make a big difference. Download Railway Guardian and become part of the community keeping the rail network safest for everyone.”