SAM ROWLANDS, Member of the Welsh Parliament for North Wales, is backing a national campaign to makerunning safer for women this winter.
Mr Rowlands has added his support to North Wales Police who are supporting Welsh Athletics’ ‘Own the Night’ campaign.
He said: “I am pleased to be able to highlight and promote such a worthwhile campaign aimed at raising awareness of women when they are out running in our communities.
“These days running has become an increasingly popular way to keep fit and healthy and whether it be early morning or in the evening many women can be seen out jogging.
“It is only right that we make sure that they feel safe to run and I would urge everyone to look out for them.”
The campaign, launched by Welsh Athletics is aimed at making running safer for women by raising awareness and empowering communities to support female runners.
‘Own the Night’ is a national campaign, that confronts the truth head-on as running should feel free, safe, and equal but for many women, the reality is very different.
Every autumn, as the clocks go back and nights draw in, women across Wales face growing concerns about safety when running in the dark.
The campaign aims to:
- Raise awareness of women’s safety concerns when running at night or early mornings.
- Empower women to continue running through the winter months with confidence.
- Educate running communities and the wider public on allyship and practical ways to support women.
Through bold storytelling, practical education, and community activation, ‘Own The Night’ seeks to unite runners, clubs, and the public in creating a safer, more inclusive environment for women who run.
Hannah Baulch, Head of Participation at Welsh Athletics said: “Running in Wales is experiencing fantastic growth at the moment, with 293,000 adults participating regularly through organised and informal activity.
“We’re delighted that since 2020, female runners have contributed to more than half of our membership figures, a stat that’s difficult to replicate in other sports.
“However, we are acutely aware female runners face numerous challenges during the winter months. It’s not just about cold weather or slippery roads, it’s about safety.
“Research by This Girl Can shows that almost three-quarters (72%) of women in the UK change their outdoor activity routines during winter, and a recent Our Streets Now survey revealed that 93% of women have experienced public sexual harassment whilst running. This simply isn’t acceptable, and we want your help to make a societal change.”
She said they were now calling for communities to support runners by offering them respect and by calling out bad behaviour.
North Wales Police’s Chief Constable Amanda Blakeman said: “As both a runner and a police officer, I know how important it is to feel safe whilst out on a run. No one should have to plan their route based on fear.
“This campaign is about making sure women can focus on their run – not their safety – and about building a community where everyone looks out for one another.
“North Wales Police is committed to ensuring that everyone feels safe whilst exercising in public spaces.
“Behaviours such as catcalling and public intimidation can escalate into more serious offences.
“Unfortunately, we know that some people – usually women, can feel uncomfortable, intimidated or scared to go out for a run, especially in the winter when the nights are longer and there is less opportunity to be outside during daylight.
“We also know that harassment of female runners and joggers is significantly under reported so I would urge anyone who experiences harassment or intimidation to report any concerns to the police so we can put an end to this behaviour.”
To find out more about the campaign please visit the Welsh Athletics website.
