RMT Warns Escalating Violence Threatens Staff Safety on Southern, Gatwick Express Routes

The Rail, Maritime and Transport union (RMT) has issued a warning about a serious escalation of violence and anti-social behaviour affecting staff on Govia Thameslink Railway's (GTR) Southern and Gatwick Express services. Workers are reportedly facing daily assaults, threats, spitting, verbal abuse, and intimidation, which the union says is jeopardizing their physical and mental health and forcing them to work in fear. RMT General Secretary Eddie Dempsey called the situation a crisis and demanded urgent action from GTR, including increased staffing, more security officers, a visible enforcement presence, and a comprehensive safety plan, threatening industrial action if demands are not met. In response, GTR highlighted its £2.5 million anti-social behaviour improvement plan initiated last year, which includes deploying over 1,500 body cameras, doubling high-visibility travel safe officers, collaboration with British Transport Police, and educational initiatives. Despite these efforts, the union insists that current measures are insufficient and continues to campaign for stronger protections and a zero-tolerance approach to violence against transport workers. Both parties acknowledge the seriousness of the issue and the need for ongoing efforts to ensure the safety of rail staff and passengers.