Research by Mitie reveals that nearly half of women in the UK, specifically 44%, feel unsafe on the streets during winter, prompting over a third to change their routes at night.

In fact, 34% of women reported altering their routes to avoid walking in the dark, while 28% prefer using taxis or public transport for safety.

A recent poll highlights that 51% of women fear being followed by a stranger, with concerns about sexual assault significantly higher among women compared to just 17% of men.

This growing unease is underscored by a 37% increase in violence against women and girls in the UK over the past five years, according to the National Police Chief’s Council.

In response to these alarming statistics, 71% of the public believes more should be done to improve street safety, with many calling on government and local authorities to take action.

Emma Kay, founder of the WalkSafe app, emphasized the urgent need for precautionary measures to protect individuals from harassment, especially during the winter months.

WalkSafe, which gained traction following the murder of Sarah Everard in March 2021, has partnered with Mitie to enhance its safety features for users.

Since its launch in 2020, the WalkSafe app has surpassed one million downloads and is actively used across 35 cities and towns globally, providing users with safety information and interactive maps.

The updated WalkSafe app now allows users to connect with trained responders for safety advice and emergency notifications while commuting.

On average, individuals in the UK are spending an additional £100 each month on taxis, trains, and buses to avoid unsafe walks home during winter.

Moreover, women are more likely than men to alter their social plans to avoid walking alone at night, with 15% of women willing to miss events compared to only 7% of men.

Under the new Workers’ Protection Act, organizations are exploring additional ways to enhance safety for employees commuting in darkness.