In a concerted effort to bolster railway safety, Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) and the British Transport Police (BTP) have proudly extended their collaborative agreement for another year. The essence of this renewed alliance underscores the mutual objective to uplift safety and security standards across the expansive GTR network.

Patrick Verwer, the CEO of GTR, and Christopher Casey, the Chief Superintendent of BTP, have both put pen to paper in signing the agreement to cement the renewed partnership.

Last year witnessed an intensified commitment from both GTR and BTP to ensure unparalleled safety throughout the GTR rail network. Marked by enhanced patrolling, augmented security detail in sensitive zones, and the establishment of expert teams attending to rising antisocial incidents and the challenges of County Lines, the partnership’s success can be seen in the latest GTR records.

Outlined goals for this fortified collaboration include:

• Developing robust measures to counter and respond to inappropriate sexual conduct within GTR premises and on its trains.
• Proactively identifying and safeguarding individuals or groups who might be at risk within the GTR ecosystem.
• Deter and take legal action against any assaults on railway staff.
• Boost confidence for both employees and travellers through intensified outreach and transparent communication.

As a testament to its unwavering dedication to train safety, GTR has welcomed Mike Boyce to steer its security and policing initiatives. Entrusted with a role that grapples with criminal offenses, disturbances, and antisocial tendencies, Boyce will be pivotal in enhancing collaborations with BTP and other vital partners.

Boyce isn’t a newcomer to railway security. With an impressive track record spanning 20 years with the BTP, he has tackled an array of criminal activities ranging from thefts and violent incidents to dealing with tragic fatalities. As a respected Inspector, Boyce’s history of working closely with key entities like BTP, Eurostar, and Network Rail positions him well to streamline operations and strengthen relationships across the board.

Mike Boyce said: “I’m pleased to be taking on the new role of Head of Security and Policing at GTR. It’s a critical role that plays perfectly into my strengths, and I’m looking forward to working with the wider team and other partners to ensure that everybody who travels through our stations or on our trains can do so safely. There is always work to be done, but part of my role is ensuring that we have plans in place to continuously improve the security of our network.”

Samantha Facey, Safety, Health and Security Director at GTR, who witnessed the signing of the collaboration agreement said: “Everyone travelling with GTR deserves to get home safely. We’ve worked closely with the BTP for many years, and along with our dedicated frontline teams and Rail Enforcement Officers, it is our joint mission to look out for the safety of our passengers and our staff. We were the first rail operator to sign the collaboration agreement in 2022 and since then have seen improvements in joint operations, shared information and better support.”

Christopher Casey, Chief Superintendent for the BTP, added: “This agreement further solidifies our close partnership as our goals remain closely intertwined. Our overarching vision at BTP is to be a world-leading Police Force trusted to provide a safe and reliable railway. This agreement’s signing distinctly outlines various mutual objectives that will enable us to collectively sustain efforts in deterring criminal activities within the rail network while also fostering trust and confidence among passengers and rail industry partners.”