Women fear transport safety

Security is to get a higher profile

Many women are reluctant to use public transport at night because of fears over safety, a survey has shown.

The study, commissioned by the Scottish Executive, found that two-thirds of those questioned restricted their use of trains and buses because of concerns about safety.

Scottish Transport Minister Sarah Boyack said the government, police and transport companies must put personal safety at the top of the public transport agenda.

Suggested changes include:

• More accessible timetables

• Better street lighting

• More evening bus and rail services

• Improved police presence

• CCTV in stations and on trains and buses

• More routes in rural areas.

Older women are also less likely to have access to cars and are more likely to rely on public transport, particularly buses.

Mrs Boyack said: "The findings of this study will be used to create a checklist to make sure transport policymakers, both in local and central government, take the needs of women into account when implementing public transport policies.

Some women said they felt safe travelling by rail

"Everyone has the right to a safe and efficient public transport system and these measures go some way to assuring all passengers a safe and pleasant journey.

"Of course it is crucial we achieve the highest safety standards for passengers and continue to challenge every level of violence and disorder experienced, but is also important we tackle people's fear of crime and the perceived threat to their safety."

The police say more officers will be on duty in stations and in buses and trains.

Tom Wood, deputy chief constable of Lothian and Borders Police, said: "This weekend is typical in Edinburgh.

"We've got a big football match and a big rugby match.

"We intend to put a lot of officers onto the transport systems to make sure they feel safe."