Frequently asked questions

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.