Initiatives to safeguard women and girls following International Women’s Day

During the lead up to race week from 11-14 March, local officers will be operating several initiatives to ensure safety during this busy period in Cheltenham, actively engaging with licensed bars, clubs, and other venues to ensure compliance with licence conditions and safety. This includes checking on SIA (Security Industry Authority) accredited door staff and addressing any arising issues throughout the week.

Councillor Victoria Atherstone, cabinet member for safety and communities, said: “Each year, Cheltenham Race Week brings in more and more people to our town. While this event and town centre vibrancy is fun for most, others can dread it. We must address a crucial concern: the safety of women and girls during this week.

"Though the races take place around International Women’s Day, we receive increasing reports every year of harassment in our streets, including accounts from girls who have been cat called, grabbed, shouted at and followed home. These safety concerns are now being extended to workplaces, and even schools.

“We strongly encourage you to call out people who may take part in anti-social behaviour, even if it’s one of your friends. We're committed to making Cheltenham Race Week safe for everyone, and we will be patrolling the streets to stop perpetrators and encourage people to report any concerns or cases of harassment.”

Melody Overton, from The Children’s Society, said: “We are committed to supporting young people, particularly during times when they may feel unsafe or vulnerable. This is why we’re providing youth workers as part of the Safe Haven initiative to offer a welcoming safe space where under-18s can find support, guidance, and reassurance – no matter what the reason.”

Ask for Angela

The council promotes the use of the ‘Ask for Angela’ initiative, a scheme designed to support women feeling vulnerable or unsafe. Staff training ensures participating venues are equipped to assist anyone who approaches them using this discreet request for help.

Public awareness posters are placed across participating licensed venues to inform patrons about the 'Ask for Angela' scheme, ensuring that visitors know they have a discreet option to seek help if needed.

This initiative is part of a broader effort to create a safer and more welcoming environment for everyone who visits these establishments. Strong communication between venue staff, law enforcement, and the community, allows the programme to swiftly address any concerns and enhance the overall safety experience.

Under 18s Safe Haven

In response to the growing concerns and challenges faced by young women and girls during race week, a new initiative called the Safe Haven has been established to ensure their safety and well-being while accessing the town centre.

With the influx of visitors, particularly male attendees, during this busy period, it is crucial that young people feel secure and confident in their environment. The Safe Haven aims to provide a designated ‘escape’ space for anyone under the age of 18 who may feel vulnerable, overwhelmed, or subjected to unwanted attention.

The Safe Haven will be situated at the Royal Air Force Association (RAFA) building located at 1 Royal Crescent, close to the bus station, and it will be operational from 11 to 14 March, open daily from 3pm to 6pm.

The Rock detached youth work team will be present in the town centre throughout the four days of operation, actively engaging with young people and directing them to the Safe Haven if they need support or a quiet space to regroup.

The Safe Haven will feature various amenities designed to support young individuals in need. These include:

• Free phone charging
• Free Wi-Fi
• A calm and welcoming space
• The opportunity to speak with trained personnel

Each session will be staffed by a minimum of four adults, comprising a Police Community Support Officer (PCSO), youth workers, and representatives from Cheltenham Borough Council.

The Safe Haven is a collaborative effort involving a range of partners, including Cheltenham Borough Council, Gloucestershire Police, The Children’s Society, Springbank Community Group, the Royal Air Force Association (RAFA), and the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC).

Taxis and private hire vehicles

We recommend that if residents are out and about during race week, they should prebook CBC licensed private hire vehicles in advance or visit one of our three taxi ranks in the town centre to use a CBC licensed Hackney Carriage taxi, as we cannot reassure residents of their safety in any other licensed or unlicensed vehicle operating in the town during the races.

The 3 taxi ranks are located on Pittville Street off the hight street opposite KFC, on the Promenade opposite the council municipal offices, and at the top of Montpellier opposite The Ivy and Montpellier Gardens.

Don't use a vehicle if you feel unsafe or the vehicle is in a state of disrepair. Sit in the back of the vehicle. Keep your mobile phone where it is easily accessible. If you feel uneasy, make a note of the number plate and driver’s licence number and text them to a friend or family member.

Unlicensed and suspicious activity can be reported to CBC’s licensing team by emailing [email protected] or calling 01242 264 135. Please note that no vehicle other than a CBC licensed Hackney Carriage taxi can be hailed from the street or can wait in one of our taxi ranks. The meter fares are also set by the council.

Proactive inspections of licensed venues and SEVs

Collaboration with Gloucestershire Constabulary and CBC licensing will also be focused on monitoring licensed nighttime venues and licensed sexual entertainment venues (SEVs) to ensure compliance with licence conditions.

The council cannot legally stop SEVs from operating, but the council will be regulating their activities with partners and the police to ensure the highest possible standards of safety.

---

For media enquiries, contact: communications, telephone 01242 264231, email [email protected]