What can men do to help women feel safer in public?

There's a lot that men can do to help ease the burden women feel when they're out and about.

Below are some tips for men who genuinely want women to feel safe, who may not realise they're inadvertently making women feel unsafe, and who understandably need some guidance on what actually helps.

1. Keep your distance – especially when walking behind otherwise it can be unnerving for women when walking alone or in the dark. If you need to pass, make a wide enough berth to make it obvious that you're avoiding getting close. If we're on a running trail, give a verbal cue ahead of time that you're just approaching to pass, like "Jogging up on your left!"
2. Offer to escort your female friends to places. Don't act surprised or confused if a woman asks you to walk her home, just as friends. If you can, try to help by seeing a friend home or to transport.
3. Intervene if you see a person being harassed. If you've witnessed a woman being harassed or assaulted, approach her gently and offer assistance. "Are you okay? Would you like me to call a [friend, manager, security, police, etc.] for you? I'll stay with you until they arrive. I saw what happened and am happy to serve as a witness." Follow the woman's lead but understand she might be scared. Keep a bit of distance but let her know you're there to help however she needs it.
4. Be an example and a mentor to younger men and boys. One of the best things men can do is to set an example for younger males. Show them what it looks like to listen to women. Talk to them about what they can do to be good men, safe men, supportive men. Nip bad behaviour and attitudes toward women and girls in the bud early.

For more information on Women's Safety, click here.