TransPennine Express Partners With BTP to Launch Dedicated PCSO Team

TransPennine Express has rolled out a new team of dedicated Police Community Support Officers as part of a formal partnership with British Transport Police, marking a significant change in how safety is managed across its rail network.

The programme follows nine months of planning and joint working between the train operator and BTP. It is designed to strengthen passenger confidence and provide additional support to frontline staff, particularly in dealing with lower-level incidents and antisocial behaviour.

A total of eight PCSOs will be deployed, working shifts that include weekends. They will carry out high-visibility patrols on board trains and at stations, offering a uniformed and approachable presence while acting as a direct link to British Transport Police. Although focused on prevention and reassurance, the officers are equipped with handcuffs and have powers of detention, enabling them to intervene when necessary alongside existing police resources.

The PCSOs operate under the authority of BTP and have access to police intelligence systems. Their work will be overseen by an in-house BTP Liaison Sergeant, ensuring close coordination between the train operator and the national rail policing body.

Teams will be based at key locations including Hull, York, Manchester, Preston and Sheffield. From these hubs, they will cover major routes such as Hull to Leeds, Scarborough to Newcastle, Manchester Airport services to Liverpool and Preston, and connections between Sheffield, Cleethorpes and Doncaster.

Five officers are already active on the TransPennine network, with the remaining three expected to be in post by February 2026, completing the full complement.

Chris Jackson, Managing Director at TransPennine Express, said:

“By introducing PCSOs, we’re setting a new standard for the industry and giving our customers and colleagues the reassurance they deserve. This is about partnership, visibility, and making rail travel even safer.”

Rail Minister, Lord Peter Hendy said:

“This shows how TransPennine Express under public ownership is leading the way in making rail journeys safer and more reassuring for all passengers and staff. Everyone should feel confident when they travel, and this partnership with British Transport Police is a great step forward. By increasing visibility and strengthening community support on the network, we’re helping to tackle antisocial behaviour and violence against women and girls, ensuring passengers and staff feel protected every day.”

BTP Superintendent David Rams said:

“Our new dedicated team of PCSOs represents our shared commitment with TransPennine Express to deliver a safer travel experience for rail passengers. This team will provide visible reassurance to the public at stations and on-board trains in the region, ensuring everyone can travel with confidence. Passengers with any concerns are urged to speak to our officers patrolling the rail network, and report anything that doesn’t look right to us by texting 61016. We’re here to protect every journey.”

Image: TransPennine Express