The initiative, supported by Ryde Town Council, aims to provide local women aged 18 and over with an opportunity to walk through areas of Ryde with female police officers or Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs). Participants can share their experiences and highlight locations or situations where they feel unsafe or vulnerable.
The goal is to help the policing team gain a better understanding of factors affecting women's feelings of safety in the community. This includes identifying poorly lit footpaths, isolated spots, areas where uncomfortable situations have occurred, or routes that are generally avoided.
Feedback from these sessions will assist the neighbourhood policing team in identifying areas for improvement and raising concerns with relevant organisations and partner agencies. Ryde Town Council has welcomed the initiative, encouraging eligible women to participate.
Participants will be paired with an officer or PCSO for a 30-minute session at a mutually convenient time. Discussions will focus on individual concerns and locations. Following the session, the policing team will seek feedback to enhance community confidence and feelings of safety.
Women interested in learning more or arranging a session can contact Katyann Berry from the East Wight Neighbourhood Policing Team via email. The initiative underscores the importance of listening to the community to work towards a safer Ryde.
