TfL offers free training after hate crime rises 36%

Transport for London (TfL) is providing free training sessions to equip passengers with the skills to safely intervene when witnessing hate crime. This initiative follows a 36 per cent increase in recorded hate crime offences across the capital's transport network.

Between January and August 2026, TfL recorded 2,396 hate crime offences. This figure represents an increase compared to the same period in the previous year. The training sessions are part of a wider campaign by TfL to promote 'active bystander' intervention and align with National Hate Crime Awareness Week, which runs from October 10 to 17.

Active Bystander Training

TfL is collaborating with the charity Protection Approaches to deliver six free online 'active bystander' training sessions throughout the autumn and winter months. These sessions aim to provide passengers with practical advice on how to understand and safely support individuals targeted by hate crime, without escalating the situation or endangering themselves.

Siwan Hayward, director of security policing and enforcement at TfL, stated that the organisation takes the safety and security of all Londoners seriously. She added that TfL is committed to addressing hate crime against both customers and staff. Ms Hayward highlighted the value of station awareness events and the online training in building passenger confidence to intervene.

As part of National Hate Crime Awareness Week, TfL will also host awareness stands at stations including Euston, Finsbury Park, and Stratford. These stands will feature virtual reality demonstrations designed to show the perspective of a bystander during a hate crime incident and offer guidance on safe intervention methods.

City Hall Investment

Kaya Comer-Schwartz, the Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime, emphasised that everyone should feel safe when travelling in London. She stated that hate crime and harassment are unacceptable on the transport network or anywhere in the city. Ms Comer-Schwartz confirmed that City Hall is leading efforts to tackle these crimes, with Sadiq Khan having invested £17 million specifically to combat hate crime.

The Deputy Mayor added that TfL's campaign supports Londoners in recognising hate crime, assisting victims, and challenging hateful narratives. She affirmed a continued commitment to working with communities, TfL, and the police to create a safer London for all residents.

Campaigns and Collaboration

TfL is running two anti-hate crime campaigns this year. One targets potential offenders, stressing the likelihood of apprehension and conviction with real case studies. The second campaign, titled 'Act Like a Friend,' advises passengers on effective bystander intervention, aiming to establish this as a recognised social norm on public transport.

The organisation is also working closely with community groups to address concerns and develop effective solutions. Patrols have been increased at transport hubs near sensitive locations, including synagogues, mosques, and faith-based schools, where incidents have been reported. The transport network is monitored by over 2,000 police and community support officers, alongside 500 TfL enforcement officers. Comprehensive CCTV coverage is in place across stations, trains, and buses, with all staff equipped with body-worn video cameras.

Efforts are ongoing to improve the accessibility and safety of crime reporting. A dedicated taskforce focused on hate crime and violence against women and girls has been established by TfL, bringing together experts and individuals with lived experience to collaborate on lasting solutions with transport operators and police.