Reported Assaults on UK Rail Services Rise 36% in 2026

Last year, reported assaults on Britain's rail services increased by 36%, totaling 13,464 incidents, according to the Office of Rail and Road (ORR). This figure marks the highest level of reported assaults since recording began in 2004. Harassment rose by 52%, while common assaults increased by 30%. Additionally, reported workforce assaults on mainline railways rose by 12%, with 11,289 incidents. This increase in violence and abuse against passengers and staff highlights the ongoing safety concerns within the rail industry, affecting overall public confidence in rail travel.