Published by Transport for the North (TfN), the study claims that residents across the North of England are rethinking whether they use public transport.
The Safety and Public Transport in the North report is based on seven focus groups.
It also draws on an online survey of more than 900 people from a range of social and economic backgrounds.
Key findings highlight that personal safety concerns directly influence travel choices, with some individuals avoiding public transport entirely.
Perceptions of danger, often shaped by media coverage or second-hand stories, can have a stronger impact than direct experience.
The report identifies that women, ethnic minorities, LGBTQ+ individuals, and disabled passengers face greater challenges in feeling safe.
Concerns increase significantly after dark, especially during the first and last parts of a journey.
Low levels of incident reporting point to a lack of confidence that issues will be addressed.
The report found that trains are generally viewed as safer than buses.
Respondents called for improved staffing, CCTV, lighting, reporting tools, and options for safe travel planning.
However, they were clear that these improvements should be funded by government or transport operators, not through higher fares or local taxes.
Katie Day, deputy chief executive of Transport for the North, said: “This research shines a light on the real-life concerns of people across the North when it comes to personal safety on public transport.
“While most journeys are incident-free, perceptions of risk are shaping decisions, with some people avoiding buses, trains or trams altogether.
“This not only affects individuals’ quality of life but can also deepen transport-related social exclusion.
“Everyone should feel confident using public transport, whatever the time of day and whatever their background.”
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TfN said the findings reinforce the need to prioritise safety in transport planning and investment.
The organisation will continue collaborating with combined authorities, local transport authorities, and regional and national partners to share evidence and provide tools through the TfN Offer.
TfN aims to secure investment and drive changes that will create safer, more inclusive journeys for all.
