New Government Tool for women and girls to flag unsafe areas

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A pilot for a new online tool to allow people to flag places where they feel unsafe has been launched by the government with support from the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC).

Hosted on the national policing website and aimed primarily at women and girls, the tool, named StreetSafe, will enable members of the public to anonymously drop a pin onto a map and describe factors that cause them concern, including behavioural or environmental reasons on why they feel unsafe. Factors could range from a poorly lit walkway to instances of public harassment and will mean concerns can be raised with police, whether or not a crime has been committed.

The information will be used alongside other key data by police, in partnership with stakeholders, to deliver improved wellbeing and safety for communities.

Changes and improvements could range from installing CCTV and street lighting across a park or common, to introducing night-time patrols led by officers or members of the local community, such as Neighbourhood Watch groups.

The pilot will last for three months with progress and feedback being continually monitored.

While this tool has not been designed to report crime, the government and police are also urging more women and girls to come forward and report crimes like sexual harassment through existing channels.

In a non-emergency, the public can call 101 or visit 101. In an emergency, always dial 999.

You can visit the StreetSafe tool here.