Tracy Brabin (By our own design: this is how we can make Britain’s parks safe for women, 13 May) highlights the problems experienced by women in public spaces; but these places should be safe for everyone.
Children, young men and elderly people are almost, if not as much, at risk. Tracy talks about better lighting and “escape routes”, neither of which would be helpful if there was no one around to respond. Once upon a time there were park keepers – famously feared by miscreants – but the holy grail of saving public money has resulted in seriously reduced funding for such roles and for community policing. So, instead, we have to pick up the tab for the damage done by rape, assault and murder.
