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TransPennine Express Launches Dedicated PCSOs on Northern Routes

The limited rollout places uniformed officers on key services under British Transport Police authority.

Overview

  • Five of eight PCSOs are already patrolling TransPennine trains and stations, with three more due to start in February 2026.
  • The officers operate under BTP authority with access to police intelligence, powers of detention, and handcuffs to handle low-level incidents.
  • Teams based in Hull, York, Manchester, Preston, and Sheffield cover routes including Hull–Leeds, Scarborough–Newcastle, Manchester Airport–Liverpool and Preston, and Sheffield–Cleethorpes and Doncaster.
  • TransPennine Express and BTP say the high-visibility presence is intended to boost passenger confidence, curb antisocial behaviour, and support staff, including a focus on tackling violence against women and girls.
  • Passengers are encouraged to speak to officers on patrol or report concerns to BTP by texting 61016, with coordination overseen by an in-house BTP liaison sergeant.