First Bus has welcomed the government’s new violence against women and girls strategy, and announced plans for a driver training programme aimed at increasing passenger safety.
First Bus says it will launch a nationwide training initiative in early 2026 in association with the Confederation of Passenger Transport (CPT) to help drivers recognise and challenge harmful behaviour onboard buses.
It follows the announcement yesterday by the Home Office of measures against misogyny and abuse against women.
In addition, First Bus highlighted its accreditation with White Ribbon UK, a charity dedicated to combating such action.
The operator also refers to its partnership with Strut Safe, a UK-wide phone line providing support for those travelling alone at night.
Janette Bell, First Bus UK Managing Director, says: “The government’s recognition that violence against women and girls is a national issue is a vital step forward.
“This is about a real commitment to safety, and at First Bus we are playing our part. Safety on public transport must be universal, but for some women and girls, this standard is not yet met. Safety is not a privilege; it is a right.
“We are already taking action, becoming a White Ribbon-accredited organisation, promoting the Strut Safe support line across our network, funding an extension to their operating days, and investing in specialist VAWG training.
“From early 2026, our new partnership training programme with CPT will roll out to all our drivers, helping them recognise and challenge harmful behaviour and better support passengers.
“We are committed to delivering lasting change on VAWG (violence against women and girls).”
