A campaign to tackle abuse of staff on Scotland's railways has been launched in the run-up to Christmas. 

ScotRail has announced it is investing £1.6million to triple the number of body-worn cameras to tackle anti-social behaviour.

It will also hire more people to double staff late-night trains in known problem areas, and introduced a team of revenue protection officers. 

The campaign has been launched to coincide with the Christmas party season, which can see a rise in abuse on the rail network. 

British Transport Police has also committed to help improve the safety of staff and support any victims of abuse.

This includes having a dedicated investigator who will follow up any report of abuse, and repeat offenders will be targeted with prohibitive court orders.

The campaign is being supported by the National Union of Rail, Maritime, and Transport Workers (RMT), Associated Society of Locomotive Engineers and Firemen (ASLEF), Transport Salaried Staff Association (TSSA), and Unite the Union (Unite), in addition to Transport Scotland and the Scottish Government.  

Fiona Hyslop MSP, Transport Minister, said: “We want everyone to have a great time this festive season.

"However, abuse of frontline public transport staff – be it verbal or physical – is completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated.

"That is why I have no hesitation in supporting this important message, alongside rail unions, BTP and transport providers."

Phil Campbell, ScotRail Customer Operations Director, said: “All rail staff have the right to go about their day in peace without fear of harassment or abuse.

"ScotRail works very closely with British Transport Police, government, and the trade unions to ensure that Scotland’s Railway is a safe environment in which to work.    

“ScotRail is investing £1.6million this year to keep staff and customers safe, using new technology and a more visible staff presence.

"With this new pledge we will work together to ensure our staff feel more protected and supported when faced with unacceptable behaviour from a small minority of passengers.”