Women and girls are routinely subjected to harassment, abuse and other forms of sexual violence in public spaces and this is not acceptable.
71% of women of all ages in the UK have experienced some form of sexual harassment in a public space. This number rises to 97% among 18-24-year-olds and only 3% of 18-24 year-olds reported having not experienced any form of harassment. These occurrences are all too common, influencing choices, behaviours and perceptions of public space safety. (Source: UN Women UK)
The safety of women and girls on our streets has been at the forefront of our minds following the murders of women across London including Sarah Everard, Sabina Nessa and Zara Aleena and we want to do everything we can to reassure our residents in Newham that they can travel, work and go out without fear.
Enhancing the safety of women and girls is a key priority for Newham Council. We have collaborated extensively with our partner organisations in the borough to develop a robust approach to responding to concerns of women safety as well as identifying ways to take preventative action to enhance women safety in public spaces.
On this webpage, you’ll find details on some of our initiatives aimed at making Newham a safer place for women and girls. Here, you can stay updated on the Council’s ongoing efforts to ensure women’s safety and well-being in our community.
We aim to provide a comprehensive resource for information on the services available to women and to keep you informed of the progress of our safety initiatives. Whether you’re looking for support or want to get involved in local efforts to empower women and promote their safety, this page has everything you need to know. We encourage you to explore and learn how you can contribute to making a positive impact on the lives of women in our borough.
Women’s Safety Survey
While you’re here, we invite you to take a few moments to complete our Women’s Safety Survey. This survey gathers valuable insights on women’s safety within Newham, helping us better understand the experiences and concerns that shape women’s daily lives. Your participation will directly contribute to identifying areas for improvement and enhancing our community’s safety measures.
The survey consists of questions about your perception of safety while walking alone in Newham, both during the day and after dark. We also ask about specific areas where you may feel less safe and the factors that contribute to these feelings. Please share your suggestions, recommendations, or any issues you’ve encountered.
Your responses will remain anonymous and confidential, and the data collected will be reviewed regularly to inform the Council and its partners in our mission to improve women’s safety across the borough.