Park personnel throughout London are receiving training aimed at identifying and addressing harassment, as part of a new initiative to enhance the safety of green spaces for women and girls.

This training program, created in collaboration with the Suzy Lamplugh Trust and the University of Leeds, equips staff with the skills to intervene when they witness inappropriate actions. Members of the public are also invited to participate in the course.

Advocates for women’s safety have noted that many women refrain from visiting parks, particularly after dark, due to concerns about their safety.

The organization that advocates against stalking and harassment is also urging for improved lighting, an increase in staff presence, and for women to have input in the design of park facilities.

“The types of incidents that this training addresses include inappropriate remarks, gestures, catcalling, or unwanted physical contact,” explained Saskia Garner from the Suzy Lamplugh Trust.

“For example, if someone sits next to you on a bench and puts their arm around you, that can create feelings of unease and is simply unacceptable.”

Ms. Garner emphasized that many individuals wish to assist but remain uncertain about how to do so safely.

“You wouldn’t walk into a park alone after dark or even with just one other friend because it feels unsafe,” one woman shared with BBC London while at Regent’s Park.

Another individual remarked: “The parks aren’t very well illuminated… in my local park, there are no street lights.”

Established following the tragic 1986 disappearance of estate agent Suzy Lamplugh, the Suzy Lamplugh Trust aims to combat violence and harassment through training and support initiatives.

“People often feel hesitant to intervene,” noted Ms. Garner.

“They fear that their actions might escalate the situation. The women we’ve spoken to expressed that they did not feel secure enough to confront the harassment, nor did they believe that anyone would assist them.”

The program promotes the concept of “active bystanders” — individuals who feel empowered to intervene safely.

“This training provides individuals with effective strategies to step in, whether by diverting attention or assisting in reporting the incident. However, it always emphasizes personal safety and the appropriateness of the response based on the situation,” added Ms. Garner.

Posters will soon be displayed in parks and community centers throughout London to encourage community members to enroll.

Dr. Anna Barker from the University of Leeds stated, “Our goal is to cultivate a community of active bystanders… enhancing individuals’ confidence, sense of connection, and ability to respond when they witness harassment.”

The training initiative is being implemented through the Green Flag Award network established by Keep Britain Tidy across England and Wales, according to the University of Leeds.