Paula Shortland
Paula’s career journey has a clear focus on both public service and safety. From shaping behaviour change at Transport for West Midlands to her current role for West Midlands Police in the Safer Travel Partnership, she’s clearly made an impact on public transport safety.
Her work with young people, schools, colleges, and businesses is not just about promoting safety - it’s about fostering a culture of responsibility and awareness, which is key to creating a safer public transport network.
As a VAWG (Violence Against Women and Girls) Champion for the Safer Travel Partnership, Paula is a leading force on Project Empower, which is a public transport campaign raising awareness of identifying and reporting unwanted sexual behaviours. Empower workshops, aimed at educating and addressing these behaviours, are also a vital part of her work.
Paula’s work is helping to educate large numbers of people across the region on travelling safely and responsibly.
My Sessions at Traffex
Thursday 22 May 2025
From Passenger to Professional: Enhancing Safety for Women in Transport
- Examines the unique safety challenges faced by women in transport professions (e.g., drivers, operators, maintenance staff).
- Explores strategies and best practices to improve safety and security for women working and using different forms of road transport.
- Discusses policy recommendations and industry actions needed to foster a more inclusive and secure environment for women in the transport sector.
