Safer Streets programme recognised for innovative approach to helping women and girls

The Greater Manchester Safer Streets programme is helping girls feel safer on public transport with this innovative approach. 

A half a million-pound investment will set up numerous schemes which aim to reduce female victim offences on the Metrolink network.  

Investments in over 50 CCTV cameras and a drone will be stationed around different Metro stops along with posters, designed by local students, raising awareness of the issue. 
 
Deputy Chief Executive of Oldham Council Sayyed Osman states: “We’re currently in the process of installing 51 CCTV cameras at locations around five Metrolink stops near the town centre to help residents and passengers feel safer”. 
 
This scheme was recognised at the iNetwork Innovation Awards last week for its approach, which has led to an average reduction of 25% in female victim offences per month.  
 
TravelSafe Partnership Manager Kate Green said: “I am delighted that the Safer Streets has achieved this recognition as the measures it has funded have made a real difference in our efforts within the TravelSafe Partnership to make public transport safer for everyone”  
 
They will also promote the use of the Greater Manchester Police’s live chat service, so more incidents get reported along with placing youth workers on transport to educate more people on the issues. 
 
Bev Hughes, the Deputy Mayor for Policing, Crime and Criminal Justice added: “The success of these interventions, which has seen a reduction incidence and an increase in reporting, is testament to our strong partnership working and the support of the local people”. 

Between the 18th of January and 24th March 2022, there were 70 incidents across all Metro-link stops within Oldham. This has been reduced by 19% compared to the 87 incidents recorded on the 1st of October to January 17th.

Currently, this is only being trialed in Oldham, however after the success of the scheme, there will be plans to expand interventions across Greater Manchester.