In the historic walled city of Derry (also known as Londonderry) in Northern Ireland, the night-time economy is vibrant. But like many urban centres, it presents safety challenges for those trying to get home. At night, a volunteer group known as the Inner City Assistance Team (iCat) often patrols the streets, intervening when people feel vulnerable – whether due to intoxication, a mental health issue, or simply being alone in unlit or unfamiliar areas.
Recently in the city, iCat introduced Safest Way, a pedestrian navigation app I co-developed during my PhD research at UCL. The app employs AI technology to show users not just faster but safer routes when walking to and from a destination – for example, the safest way home after a night out.
