Transport for London (TfL) has launched a new campaign across cinemas and ITVX to encourage passengers to support those targeted by hate crime or abuse on the city’s transport network.
The campaign begins during National Hate Crime Awareness Week (11–18 October) and includes a second phase targeting perpetrators, reminding them of the serious consequences of committing offences on public transport.
TfL says the safety of passengers remains a top priority. A new joint taskforce was launched last week with police to tackle sexual offences, harassment, violence against women and girls (VAWG), and hate crime across the network. This follows the Mayor of London’s pledge to make the capital’s transport system safer and more welcoming for everyone.
“Act Like a Friend” campaign
A new video campaign will appear in London cinemas and on ITVX, encouraging people to be active bystanders — to “act like a friend” if they see someone being targeted on a bus, train, or Tube.
The video is based on three true stories of Londoners who helped calm situations by simply talking to the person being harassed. TfL is also displaying posters across stations featuring other real-life examples and conversation starters that helped passengers safely intervene.
At the same time, another poster campaign for perpetrators warns about the consequences of committing hate crimes, harassment, or fare evasion. The messages are bold and direct, aiming to make offenders think twice before acting.
Training and community action
To mark National Hate Crime Awareness Week, TfL is partnering with Protection Approaches, a national charity working to prevent identity-based violence. Together, they will run ten free online “active bystander” sessions for the public, funded by the Mayor’s Office for Policing and Crime (MOPAC).
These two-hour sessions, starting 22 October to 1 December, will help Londoners learn how to safely step in when they witness hate crime. TfL will also host awareness events across major stations including Edmonton, Stratford, Euston, Waterloo, and London Bridge, explaining what hate crime is and how to report it.
“Everyone deserves to feel safe”
Kaya Comer-Schwartz, Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime, said:
“No one should be a victim of hate crime or harassment in London. TfL’s new campaign gives people the confidence to stand up to hate and support others safely.
City Hall will keep working with police and communities to make London a place where everyone feels welcome and respected.”
