The Commissioner’s office is working with partners including Great Western Railway (GWR) and the University of Plymouth to explore how women’s perceptions of safety on public transport can be better understood and improved.
This includes supporting proposals for new research focused on women’s lived experiences of safety when travelling. Strengthening this evidence base will help ensure that future interventions are informed by real experiences and lead to practical, targeted improvements across the transport network.
This work builds on an established programme of activity to improve safety at night, including the continued expansion of night bus services across Devon and Cornwall. Funded by the Commissioner and delivered in partnership with local authorities, transport providers, businesses and emergency services, these services provide affordable, reliable journeys late into the evening and early hours.
Night buses are designed to reduce drink and drug driving, anti-social behaviour and violence against women and girls, while supporting people to travel safely. Since their introduction, demand has grown significantly, with services expanding from a small pilot into a wider network operating across multiple routes in Devon and seasonal services in Cornwall.
The Commissioner has confirmed continued investment in night bus provision throughout 2026 in areas where demand is highest. Evidence to date indicates that the services are contributing to reductions in anti-social behaviour, road safety risks and violence, while providing reassurance to passengers. No incidents have been reported on the buses themselves.
The continued growth of the scheme reflects strong partnership working across the region, including collaboration with transport operators, local councils and police. Expansion of services – such as new routes and extended coverage – aims to ensure more people, including shift workers and those using the night-time economy, can travel safely.
Public transport safety remains a key priority. By combining practical interventions such as night bus services with longer-term research into women’s experiences, the Commissioner’s office is taking a coordinated approach to improving safety, building confidence, and addressing risks linked to violence against women and girls.
Click on the sections below to find out more about the Disrupt project:
