Westminster Council has launched a scheme to help protect women from sexual harassment in the West End.
Shocking data has revealed that a third of women living in Westminster have suffered street harassment, while 45 per cent report feeling unsafe at night.
Violence and sexual offences against women were among the most common crimes in the borough in 2021, with high rates of both in the West End.
The local authority was awarded £289,600 of funding last year to deliver six crucial initiatives as part of the Night Sfaety programme which aim to reduce rates of sexual harassment in Westminster.
The ‘It’s Her City Too’ campaign, aims to combat illicit, unwanted and illegal behaviour against women and to get bystanders to challenge sexual harassment.
More volunteers will patrol the streets at night as part of the scheme. In addition, more safe havens for women will be introduced around the city as well as night safety walks and women’s safety training for local business staff.
Councillor Aica Less, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Communities and Public Protection, said: “The West End should be a fun and safe place for our residents and visitors to enjoy. Everyone, especially women, shouldn’t have to deal with sexual harassment.
“I’ve lived in Westminster all my life and want others to experience the exciting and fun city that I know. But as the mother of two daughters who grew up in central London, I understand the anxieties parents have when their children go out.
“As part of our Fairer Communities commitment, we don’t want anyone to feel unsafe or have their night ruined by the pathetic behaviour of certain individuals and are calling for everyone to take responsibility for the behaviour of others.”
