When it comes to english councils to get guidance on designing safer streets for women and girls, in a groundbreaking move, English councils are set to receive guidance aimed at creating safer streets for women and girls. This initiative, spearheaded by Active Travel England (ATE), seeks to address longstanding inequalities that hinder many from feeling secure while navigating their neighborhoods. The guidance, expected to be finalized later this year, will include a range of safety measures designed to enhance public spaces.
Understanding English Councils To Get Guidance On Designing Safer Streets For Women And Girls
The forthcoming guidance will advocate for improved street lighting and the installation of CCTV cameras, crucial steps in addressing safety concerns. Additionally, the plans include replacing dark underpasses with street-level crossings, ensuring that women and girls can traverse their communities without fear. These initiatives are inspired by successful models from other countries, such as Spain and Sweden, where women can request bus drivers to drop them off between stops at night, reducing their exposure to dark, isolated areas. Originally reported by The Guardian.
A recent poll conducted by YouGov highlights the urgency of this initiative; it revealed that nearly 75% of women alter their routes during winter to avoid poorly lit areas. Alarmingly, 88% of female respondents reported feeling unsafe walking alone after dark. This data underscores the systemic barriers faced by women and girls, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach to public safety.
A Commitment to Fairness and Inclusivity
Lilian Greenwood, the local transport minister, articulated the importance of this guidance as both a matter of equity and an opportunity to boost physical activity among women and girls. In her upcoming speech at a conference, she plans to address the pervasive mental calculations women must make regarding their safety when moving through public spaces. "For too many, particularly women and girls, it comes with a calculation - a constant, exhausting mental calculation - about safety, lighting, routes and risk," Greenwood stated.
The initiative aims to shift the focus from the responsibility of women to the environments that contribute to their feelings of insecurity. Jess Phillips, the Home Office minister responsible for safeguarding, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that women and girls should not have to fear for their safety while going about their daily lives. "Women and girls deserve to feel safe simply going about their lives, whether that is walking down the street, travelling, or using public spaces after dark," Phillips remarked.
Government Support and Funding
As part of this initiative, councils will have the opportunity to apply for central government funding to implement these safety improvements. However, such funding will only be awarded if the proposed projects meet stringent quality standards. The guidance aims to promote a gender-focused approach to active travel, encouraging councils to consider how their environments can be made safer and more inclusive for all residents.
Chris Boardman, commissioner for ATE, highlighted the importance of community input in shaping these guidelines. He noted that understanding the lived experiences of women and girls is essential for creating effective safety measures. "It's a terrible thing that women and girls don't feel they have the same freedoms to simply walk in their neighbourhood as men and boys. Everyone should feel safe getting around, and our job is to help make that happen," Boardman stated.
The Broader Implications of Safety in Public Spaces
The implications of this initiative extend beyond personal safety. Greenwood emphasized that fostering a safer environment for walking can significantly contribute to public health and economic vitality. "Yet all this remains out of reach if people don't feel safe on our streets," she said, pointing out that almost 90% of female respondents in the poll expressed fears about walking alone after dark. This stark reality reveals a systemic barrier that prevents millions of women and girls from making essential journeys.
Earlier this year, the government faced criticism for overlooking women's safety in its new national planning guidelines for England. The housing and communities department had previously stated that the connection between planning and women's safety was unclear, raising concerns about the prioritization of safety in urban planning.
As the final guidance from ATE approaches publication, it stands as a pivotal moment in addressing street safety for women and girls across England. By implementing these recommendations, councils could foster a more secure and equitable environment, ensuring that everyone can move freely and confidently in their communities.
Originally reported by The Guardian. View original.