Creating streets that are safe for everyone, especially women, is more important than ever. It’s a topic that’s been at the forefront of many discussions, with current statistics shining a light on the societal implications. Women often find themselves on high alert when travelling alone, casting a shadow over their sense of freedom and security.
Despite the west being relatively safe, almost 50% of young women reported street harassment in the past year, and in France a quarter of all women fear walking alone in public spaces, with many having been verbally harassed on the street.
We all know from the shocking case of Sarah Everard, that women feel less safe, as she was kidnapped and murdered by the very person (a policeman) she thought she could trust (and of course, most policemen are trustworthy).
Women feel much safer if everyone else is walking, along well-lit pavements (that also accommodate prams and pushchairs, and ‘prowlers’ are less likely to lurk, as they would be seen).
Quick easy access to public transport is key (no waiting in the dark for an hour for the next bus). Ensuring everything works (like installing modern easy-to-read bus timetables and ensure solar lighting is maintained) is also key. Good cycling routes (with wider side lanes) also helps.
Understanding the Current Landscape
Sadly, numbers reveal that street harassment is alarmingly common. Globally, reports indicate that a majority of women experience some form of harassment, with studies showing that around 70% of women globally have faced intimidation while walking in public. On a local level, around 3 in 5 women in urban areas report feeling unsafe at night.
The impact of unsafe streets goes beyond physical harm. It takes a toll on mental health, limiting freedom and social interaction. Fear restricts women’s mobility and erodes confidence, leading to increased stress and anxiety.
Women might avoid certain routes or evening activities, affecting their participation in community life. This isn’t just a personal issue; it’s a societal one that needs addressing.
Practical Steps for Improving Street Safety
Lighting is crucial. Well-lit streets (using orange-hued lights that turn off when not in use, to reduce light pollution for wildlife and birds) reduce opportunities for crime and give women more confidence when walking alone.
Improvements in public transport, with increased visibility and security measures, can also make a difference. It’s about creating spaces that naturally deter crime and promote inclusivity. Well-maintained pathways and open public areas also help in making women feel safe.
Simple actions like walking on well-lit streets, carrying a personal safety alarm, and keeping phone contacts on hand can boost confidence. Trusting one’s instincts and always having an exit plan are wise habits. It’s about empowering women to feel confident and prepared.
Role of Technology in Enhancing Safety
Safetipin lets councils collect information on how to make places safer for women (it automatically clicks photos every 30 minutes at night, and can also be sent info from the personal app users, who can report on how safe they feel on streets, at public transport stations or public toilets.
You can also send a tracking request if you feel unsafe, check out nearby safe places to wait for help, find the safest route out of an area using Google Maps and find support (police, shelters).
In the digital age, technology aids safety. Apps like bSafe offer features like live location sharing and emergency alerts. These tools connect users with trusted contacts at the push of a button, providing an extra layer of security. They’re invaluable resources that can make a world of difference when feeling threatened.
Advocacy and Policy Change
Effective change often starts at the grassroots level. Engaging with local authorities is essential for those seeking a safer environment. Attending council meetings, joining safety forums, and voicing concerns can prompt policy shifts. Change happens when individuals come together to demand it.
Education campaigns are vital. They shape attitudes, challenge norms, and educate the public about safety issues. These campaigns can spread awareness about consent, respect, and the responsibilities we all have towards each other. When people understand the real impact of their actions, change becomes possible. It’s about fostering respect and understanding.
What to Learn from Vienna
The Economist recently ranked Vienna as the most livable city. Most living areas have beautiful safe open green spaces nearby, all linked to schools, doctors and pharmacies, and there are also good public transport links. All the public parks, pavements and alleys are well-lit.
Parks include courts for badminton and volleyball, and there are seats for girls from ethnic minorities (often expected to care for younger siblings) to watch them in playgrounds, while being able to read/chat themselves). Pavements are wider for prams, pushchairs and wheelchairs. Download free reports: designing safe cities for women and travelling in a women’s shoes.
A Book on Designing Safe Cities for Women
She City is a unique book, which shows how to make cities that are safe for everyone, including women (avoiding dark alleys and unlit spaces). Town planners have responsibility to redesign cities, towns and villages that deter unwanted attacks and lead people to feel safer walking, especially at night. A book for forward-thinking architects or a birthday book for your town council!
Focusing on walkable communites (also good for supporting indie shops) that avoid having to drive out-of-town to shop (females are still paid less generally in jobs, so are less likely to able to afford a car). Focusing on open areas to be seen and good solar lighting (this goes off when not in use, so also good to prevent light pollution that affects wildlife and causes bird window strike near glass buildings especially). Such measures also make cities more pleasant to live.
