The Confederation of Passenger Transport (CPT) has commissioned a new training module to support both bus and coach drivers on how to identify and report violence against women and girls (VAWG) onboard services.
CPT has commissioned agency Understood to provide a training package, which includes a series of video clips and interactive activities that highlight a number of common scenarios and offers advice on how they can be diffused without escalation.
Keith McNally, Operations Director of the Confederation of Passenger Transport, said:We believe everyone should feel safe and comfortable using public transport, but sadly we know this isn't always the case.
This training is an important step for our industry, supporting drivers in recognising VAWG and knowing what to do, helping them to lead the way in creating a safer public transport system across the country. Thank you to Understood for being such great partners in this work.
The Government has previously stated that tackling VAWG is a priority, with the Bus Services (No. 2) Bill aiming to strengthen driver training requirements to manage anti-social behaviour on a broader scale.
In order to provide a comprehensive training package, CPT worked with partners across trade unions, the White Ribbon campaign and Women’s Aid .
Carolyn Quainton, Director of Understood, said:We're proud to be working with CPT to get this important training module up and running. However, we recognise that training alone is not sufficient for tackling violence against women and girls; we believe training must sit alongside a wider system of support bringing people and organisations across communities together.
Once qualified, bus drivers are required to carry 35 hours of Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) training every five years, with this module now intended to be delivered as part of that training.
A pilot of the scheme will be held throughout Autumn 2025, with a full rollout planned for late 2025.
