I know we live in a different age now and the following suggestion wouldn't be deemed cost-effective in today's market but would bringing back conductors (at peak times - say between 07:30 and 17:30) make a difference to employee morale?
That way, the bus driver and get on with his or her job (driving the bus!) and the conductor can sort out any other customer-related issues that may arise.
RE: Anything and Everything