Train companies will be independently assessed by the British Transport Police on their ability to tackle sexual harassment against women and girls.
Under the national Safer Railway Scheme, operators will be measured against eight clear standards, and must meet a minimum performance standard.
They will be expected to show their ability to support victims, protect vulnerable passengers, train staff, and prevent harassment, the Home Office said.
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A 2025 survey found almost a third of girls and young women have avoided taking public transport alone out of fear for their safety.
The Girls’ Attitudes Survey from Girlguiding found 56% of girls and young women aged between 11 and 21 said they feel unsafe taking public transport by themselves, while 31% have avoided it altogether.
Minister for safeguarding and violence against women and girls Natalie Fleet said: “I know what it is like to experience this kind of behaviour – the fear, the anger, and the way it changes how you move through the world. Too many women carry this every day, including on their journeys to work or home.
“By working with the rail sector through the Enough campaign – from stations and platforms to digital channels – we are using every opportunity to challenge abuse and make public transport safer for women and girls.”
