Frequently asked questions
Not sure where to report a crime, or have a question about what
we do? Our frequently asked questions might help.
How do I report crime which occurred on a train or
station?#
Call us on 0800 40 50 40 or text 61016
to report any crime, to seek crime prevention advice or to make us
aware of issues affecting your local station or your journey on the
rail network.
In an emergency, dial 999. An emergency is when
a crime is happening, someone suspected of a crime is nearby,
someone is injured, being threatened or in danger.
How do I report a crime which occurred on a bus, street or
motorway?
We are the national police force for the railways
including trains and railway stations. If the incident has occurred
outside of the railways you should call 101.
In an emergency call 999.
When should I text you?
Text us on 61016 to
report non-emergency incidents that occurred on a train or at
a station, similar to the ones you would report to the 101
phone number provided by your local police force.
The text number is monitored 24/7 and, while it is not for
reporting emergencies, we will be able to send officers if
required.
Find more information about how to use our
text number.
What do I do if I see a suspect package?
If you see a vehicle, unattended package or bag which might be an
immediate threat, move away and call 999 or
contact the nearest member of staff.
How should I report antisocial behaviour?
Any threatening or abusive behaviour should be reported. This
includes rowdy, noisy or drunken behaviour, offensive or
threatening language, littering or vandalism, or forming part of a
menacing group.
Call us on 0800 40 50 40 or text
61016 to report antisocial behaviour. To report
antisocial behaviour on buses or roads, please contact your local
police station on 101.
If a crime is in progress or if anyone is in immediate
danger, you should always dial 999.
I was expecting someone on a train but they have not arrived as
scheduled, what should I do?
There can be a number of reasons why this
could happen, if the person is not vulnerable contact
National Rail on 03457 484 950 as
trains may have been re-routed or delayed, however if you remain
concerned please contact us on 0800 40 50 40 or
text 61016.
What is a PND?
A Penalty Notice of Disorder can be issued if
an officer has reason to believe that a person has
committed an offence for which a PND is suitable and that they have
no history of similar offences. For information on fines, how
to pay them and any further information, please visit
our PND page.
Which areas do you cover?
We police the tracks, stations, trains and all related rail
infrastructure across England, Scotland and Wales. We also police
the London Underground system, Docklands Light Railway, the Midland
Metro tram system, Croydon Tramlink, Sunderland Metro and the
Glasgow Subway. You can find your local
station on the contact us page.
How are you funded?
The vast majority of our funding comes from the train
operating companies and Network Rail, however we do accept funding
from the Home Office for specific projects we are engaged in with
them.
Do you have the same powers as local
officers?
Yes. Our officers receive the same training as Home Office
police forces, but we train them in extra skills relating to
track safety and railway byelaws.
I have lost property on a train or station, how do I get a
reference number or report this?
Please visit Report My
Loss, where you will be able to register your property as lost
and be provided with a reference number which you may be able to
use for insurance purposes. If the loss occurred on a train or
railway station please select ‘UK Rail Network’ from the list in
the County/Authority choices. The website shares information across
UK police forces and other agencies which may help reunite you with
your property.
How do I make a request under Freedom of
Information?
You can make a request by visiting our
Freedom of Information page.