Bee Network new and improved TravelSafe LiveChat to launch in Manchester
A new TravelSafe LiveChat allowing Bee Network passengers to report concerns while travelling will launch in October to help improve safety and reduce crime on public transport.
The new function will build on the existing Greater Manchester Police (GMP) LiveChat, allowing people to quickly and discreetly report crime and other issues onboard buses, trams and surrounding stops and get advice from call handlers within minutes.
LiveChat will act as a single point of contact for passengers wanting to report an issue.
This support can range from providing advice or deploying TravelSafe Support and Enforcement Officers (TSEOs) or police officers to respond to the issue.
The perception of safety is improving with 78% of passengers surveyed saying they are satisfied with the level of safety on the network, an improvement of 4% since 2023.
Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, said: “No-one should be made to be or feel unsafe while travelling or working on the Bee Network, and we take a zero-tolerance approach to crime and antisocial behaviour on our buses, trams and at our stops, stations and interchanges.”
He said: “Launching in October when darker nights draw in, TravelSafe LiveChat represents the first phase of a new, more integrated approach to policing public transport and reassuring the travelling public that we will act swiftly to deter and address these behaviours head on.”
Adding: “We know that safety remains a real concern for people, and as we welcome more people onto the Bee Network, I want to reassure everyone that we are committed to doing more and going further to ensure everyone can use public transport with confidence.”
Deputy Chief Constable Terry Woods, from Greater Manchester Police, said: “Transport safety is a key priority for Greater Manchester Police, and we are committed to supporting the Mayor’s plans for a more connected and greener city, through tackling crime and antisocial behaviour on the transport networks.”
Adding: “It is vital that everyone who comes to Greater Manchester feels safe to travel through the area on public transport. We are clear in the role it plays with TfGM, and others, in ensuring if passengers have any safety issues then there is a rapid response provided and the introduction of TravelSafe LiveChat will play a key part in this service.”