TfL says 2,396 offences were recorded in the first eight months of 2026, as passengers are offered free training on how to intervene safely.
Recorded hate crime on London transport rose by 36 per cent to 2,396 offences between January and August 2026, compared with the same period last year, according to Transport for London.
TfL said improved reporting and international events were among several factors behind the increase, while acknowledging that many incidents still go unreported.
The figures come as TfL launches a series of events during National Hate Crime Awareness Week to help passengers respond safely when witnessing abuse or harassment.
Virtual reality demonstrations are being held at eight stations across the capital, allowing passengers to experience the perspective of a bystander witnessing a hate crime.
The sessions aim to show how people can safely intervene and support those being targeted without putting themselves at risk.
The following stations will run virtual reality awareness stands:
- Stratford – Monday 12 October, 10:00 – 12:00
- Liverpool Street – Monday 12 October, 13:30 – 15:30
- Harrow on the Hill – Tuesday 13 October, 12:00 – 15:00
- Victoria – Wednesday 14 October, 10:00 – 12:00
- Euston – Wednesday 14 October, 13:30 – 15:30
- Golders Green – Thursday 15 October, 12:00 – 15:00
- Stamford Hill – Friday 16 October, 10:00 – 12:00
- Finsbury Park – Friday 16 October, 13:30 – 15:30
TfL is also funding six free online training sessions with the charity Protection Approaches, beginning on 19 October and continuing until December.
The sessions will provide practical advice on recognising hate crime, supporting victims and responding safely to incidents.
Siwan Hayward, TfL’s Director of Security, Policing and Enforcement, said: “We will not stand for hate crime of any form on our network, whether it’s against our customers or staff.”
Concerns about violence on London’s transport network extend beyond hate crime. In May, a London bus driver was stabbed while waiting for his bus in Southall, prompting Unite to call for stronger protection for bus workers. Police have not publicly identified the attack as hate-motivated.
The initiative builds on TfL’s existing ‘Act Like a Friend’ campaign, which encourages passengers to support people experiencing hate crime or harassment.
Passengers who witness or experience incidents on the Underground or rail services can report them to British Transport Police by texting 61016.
Incidents on buses can be reported to the Metropolitan Police online or by calling 101. Anyone in immediate danger should call 999.
