Full Breakdown
Let’s Lift the Curfew: A Nationwide Push to Keep Women Active After Dark
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event – Campaign Launches Nationwide Runs to Counter “Hidden Curfew”
The “Let’s Lift the Curfew” movement, run by the This Girl Can campaign and backed by Sport England and England Athletics, is staging free public runs and walks across the UK as evenings grow darker. Organisers say the aim is to demonstrate that women should not have to alter where, when, or how they exercise because of safety fears.
Background & Context – Seasonal Darkness Spurs Safety Concerns
When daylight-saving time ends each autumn, shorter daylight hours create what campaign leaders call a “hidden curfew” for many women. The campaign argues that the perception of danger after dark discourages outdoor activity, affecting health during the winter months.
Data & Statistics – Women’s Perceptions of Safety
- Campaign-commissioned research finds 58 % of women in the South West feel unsafe exercising alone after dark.
- A UK-wide survey reports 55 % share the same concern.
- Roughly 72 % of women across the UK change or restrict their outdoor routines in winter because of safety worries.
Key Figures & Groups
- Kate Peers – Head of campaigns, This Girl Can.
- Laura Brooks – Programme manager, This Woman Runs, Bristol.
- The Muddy Runners – Andover club supporting high-visibility events.
- St Helens Striders – Hosting a free event on October 28.
- Sarah Knight – Run leader with Pontesbury Runners.
On-the-Ground Reports – Local Runs Highlight Community Support
In St Helens, the Striders will meet at Ruskin Drive at 7:30 p.m. on October 28, inviting participants to run or walk together under head-torches and glow sticks. Mike Gittins of the Striders said the event shows “you are not alone” and encourages “safe, supported” exercise.
In Andover, the Muddy Runners plan a 5 km run on Weyhill Road at 6:30 p.m., urging neon and flashing lights to create a “powerful visual reminder” of inclusive public spaces.
The Bristol-based group This Woman Runs promotes reflective clothing and notes cat-calling and intimidation as common deterrents for women after dark.
Across the country, more than 390 events are scheduled, offering women the option to join organised activities rather than exercising alone.
Official Statements & Responses
Campaign officials stress that safety concerns should not dictate women’s exercise habits. Local leaders echo the call for community awareness, emphasizing that visible participation can reclaim streets and parks for all users.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
The campaign’s research cites 58 % of women in the South West feeling unsafe, while a separate UK-wide survey reports 55 %, and another source claims 72 % change their routines. The variation reflects differing sample sizes and regional focuses, and no single figure is presented as definitive.
What’s Next – Continued Nationwide Activities
Organisers encourage women to join any of the planned runs or walks throughout the week after the clocks change. Event listings are available on local group websites, and participants are asked to register online where required. The campaign hopes high-visibility outings will spark broader conversations about public-space safety and lead to lasting improvements.