Text reporting campaign leads to 83,000 crimes logged
The 'See it. Say it. Sorted.' initiative encourages passengers to report concerns via text, leading to significant police action.
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The 'See it. Say it. Sorted.' campaign, which encourages rail passengers to report anything that does not feel right, has prompted more than 1.5 million text messages to British Transport Police (BTP) since its inception in 2016. These reports, primarily sent to the 61016 text service, have led to the recording of nearly 83,000 crimes across the UK rail network.
The initiative, initially focused on counter-terrorism, has expanded its remit to cover a wide range of safety concerns and criminal activity. Passengers using the 61016 number have facilitated over 175,000 police deployments in response to their reports over the past decade. Last year alone, BTP received almost 200,000 texts via the service, a figure that has seen a substantial increase since the campaign's launch.
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Regulated fares are set to increase next March, with no funding allocated to extend the current freeze beyond spring 2027.
Impact on passenger safety
Lucy D’Orsi, chief constable of British Transport Police, stated that the campaign encourages passengers to report concerns, thereby raising awareness of the 61016 text service. She noted that the service, which now receives over 25,000 messages monthly, allows for discreet reporting of crime, suspicious behaviour, and sexual harassment, enabling swift action. D’Orsi emphasised the public's role as 'eyes and ears' on the railway, contributing significantly to network safety.
The campaign is utilised by all train operators and stations throughout England, Scotland, and Wales. According to reports, over 60% of travellers feel more secure due to visible safety measures while commuting. A specific incident in March 2025 involved a passenger reporting child abuse material being viewed on a phone, leading to an arrest and a prison sentence of over two years.
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Transport for London issued over 1.6 million penalty notices in the 2025-2026 financial year, a decrease from the previous year.
Government funding and future plans
The UK government has committed an additional £63 million to British Transport Police over a three-year period. This funding is intended to support the recruitment of 200 new officers, including a dedicated team of 36 officers focused on reducing violence and intimidation directed at women and girls. Furthermore, £17 million has been allocated for improvements to CCTV systems at railway stations as part of broader efforts to enhance passenger security.
Rail operators are also being evaluated on their performance in addressing violence against women and girls. Lord Hendy, the rail minister, affirmed the government's commitment to railway safety and highlighted the campaign's decade-long contribution to transforming crime reporting and supporting BTP.
Questions this report answers
+How many crimes have been reported through the 61016 text service?
Almost 83,000 crimes have been recorded through the 61016 text service. This service is promoted by the 'See it. Say it. Sorted.' campaign, which encourages passengers to report anything that doesn't feel right on the railway network.
+What is the 'See it. Say it. Sorted.' campaign?
It is a safety initiative launched in 2016 that encourages rail passengers to report concerns via text to British Transport Police. The campaign has received over 1.5 million texts and has been instrumental in logging nearly 83,000 crimes.
+How much funding has the UK government provided for British Transport Police?
The UK government has allocated an additional £63 million to British Transport Police over three years. This funding will support the recruitment of 200 new officers and enhance CCTV systems at stations.
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