**Travelodge Failed Sex Assault Victim 'At Every Stage', Independent Review Reveals**
An independent review has concluded that Travelodge fundamentally failed a woman who was sexually assaulted at its Maidenhead hotel in December 2022. The report, led by barrister Paul Greaney KC, highlighted significant shortcomings in the hotel chain's security policies, which were deemed "not fit for the purpose of keeping guests safe."
The incident involved Kyran Smith, who managed to obtain a key to the victim's hotel room by falsely claiming to be her boyfriend. He was able to secure the key in under three minutes after approaching the reception desk, where the receptionist had not received adequate training in key security protocols. Following the assault, Smith was sentenced to seven-and-a-half years in prison in January.
The review pointed out that the security measures in place at Travelodge were insufficient to protect guests, with nearly one in ten Travelodge hotels reporting room intrusions during the summer of 2026. Furthermore, it noted the absence of a specific policy addressing violence against women and girls, raising concerns about the overall safety of guests at the chain.
Travelodge has since issued an "unreserved" apology to the victim, acknowledging the failures in their security processes. The company has also made changes to its policies since March, although the review emphasized that guests still do not feel as safe as they should be while staying at Travelodge properties.
The findings of the review have sparked discussions about the need for improved security measures in the hospitality industry, particularly regarding the protection of vulnerable individuals. Travelodge's response to the review and its commitment to enhancing guest safety will be closely monitored in the coming months.
As the investigation continues to draw attention, it serves as a reminder of the critical importance of robust security protocols in hotels and the responsibility of hospitality providers to ensure the safety of their guests.