As part of our ongoing commitment to enhancing the safety and wellbeing of women and girls across the West End, from Monday 14 July until Friday 18 July we are running a week of action dedicated to tackling violence against women and girls. The week will include a number of activities, from an information sharing seminar, to a West End walk and talk with the Metropolitan Police Service. More information on activities taking place can be found below, in addition to details of charities and organisations dedicated to promoting women’s safety and supporting an end to violence against women and girls.
WEEK OF ACTION ACTIVITIES
Member visits with all-female New West End Company Security Unit & Westminster City Council – Monday 14 July
A dedicated all-female New West End Company Security unit and Westminster City Council officers will conduct member visits throughout the day, providing guidance to staff, and distributing leaflets with useful information on organisations that support Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) initiatives such as Refuge, the UK’s largest domestic abuse organisation for women, the Employers’ Initiative on Domestic Abuse (EIDA), and Safe Haven, an organisation which provides a safe space for women in moments of vulnerability.
Read on below for more information on each of the above mentioned organisations, plus more.
‘Walk, Talk and Do’ initiative with the Metropolitan Police Service – Tuesday 15 July
A unique collaboration with the Metropolitan Police Service, providing members with an opportunity to walk the West End with officers from the Metropolitan Police Service and share their views on the development of effective safety measures in our community for Women and Girls.
The walk offers the opportunity to discuss any concerns or suggestions members may have regarding the safety of women and girls within the district, including:
- Instances of harassment or unwanted attention in specific areas.
- Suggestions for improving lighting or security measures in certain locations.
- Personal safety concerns while commuting or working late hours.
- Ideas for community programs to support the safety and empowerment of women and girls.
If you would like to take part in the walk please contact [email protected].
Safe Haven Pop-Up Event – Wednesday 16 July
On Wednesday, 16th July, we’re holding a Safe Haven pop-up event in Hanover Square, just outside the Elizabeth Line station, in partnership with the Metropolitan Police Service and Westminster City Council.
This event is part of our ongoing work to address Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) and improve safety across the night-time economy.
We’ll be promoting the new Safe Haven app, which helps individuals find nearby safe spaces if they feel unsafe. Businesses will also have the opportunity to receive training to become recognised Safe Havens.
What’s happening on the day:
- Public engagement to raise awareness of VAWG
- Information and live demos of the Safe Haven and Vigilant apps
- Support from the Met Police and the Westminster City Council on women’s safety initiatives
- Free cupcakes and giveaways
Come along to learn more about the steps we’re taking to create a safer West End for everyone, especially women and girls out enjoying the area at night
Tackling Violence Against Women and Girls Seminar – Thursday 17 July
We will be hosting a seminar exploring the movement to end violence against women and girls (VAWG) and what is being done within the district to combat the issue.
For this session, we will be joined by the Metropolitan Police Service, who will share updates on the initiatives being implemented to address VAWG and enhance women’s safety throughout London, alongside information on other proactive measures they are taking.
Additionally, we will have Westminster City Council join us to discuss their Night Stars Campaign – a group of volunteers set up by Westminster City Council that is focused on working with the West End’s evening and night-time economy businesses to promote women’s safety and reduce violence against women and girls.
Also joining the session is the Employers’ Initiative on Domestic Abuse (EIDA), a dedicated organisation supporting businesses of all sizes nationwide in taking effective action against domestic abuse through the exchange of information and best practices.
If you’re interested in joining this event, please see email [email protected]. Feel free to extend this invite to colleagues who might also find it useful.
- DATE: Thursday 17 July 2025
- TIME: 9:00am – 10:30am
- LOCATION: Photographers’ Gallery at 16-18 Ramillies Street, London, W1F 7LW
Metropolitan Police Service and New West End Company Security Team Joint Patrols in Mayfair – Friday 18 July
The Metropolitan Police Service and New West End Company Security Team will collaborate on joint patrols throughout the Mayfair area on Friday 18 July, specifically targeting businesses that operate within the night-time economy. This initiative is part of the broader Metropolitan Police Service, Operation Vigilant, which aims to enhance public safety and reduce crime during peak night-time hours. The patrols will cover a variety of establishments, including bars, restaurants, and hotels, which are often bustling with activity during the late hours.
A primary focus of these patrols is to address and prevent violence against women and girls. This initiative recognises the heightened risks that women and girls may face in nightlife settings, including harassment, assault, and other forms of violence. The joint efforts of the Metropolitan Police Service and New West End Company Security Team are designed to create a safer environment where women and girls can enjoy the night-time economy without fear.
Westminster City Council’s Night Stars will also be participating in these patrols. The Night Stars program is a community safety initiative that involves trained volunteers who support vulnerable individuals during night-time hours. They provide a reassuring presence, assist those who may be in distress, and work to prevent antisocial behaviour, with a particular focus on supporting women and girls.
For more information on the Violence Against Women and Girls Action Week and how your business can get involved, please contact [email protected]
CHARITIES AND ORGANISATIONS PROMOTING WOMEN’S SAFETY
Mayor’s Office for Policing and Crime MOPAC
MOPAC is heavily involved in addressing VAWG in London. Their strategy includes a public health approach, focusing on preventing violence, supporting victims, and rebuilding trust in the police and criminal justice system. MOPAC funds services and collaborates with local authorities, the NHS, and the Crown Prosecution Service CPS to combat VAWG effectively.
End Violence Against Women Coalition EVAW
EVAW works to end all forms of violence against women and girls by advocating for effective policies and raising awareness about the impact of VAWG. They also provide support and resources for marginalized women, including those affected by retail and night-time crime.
Employers’ Initiative on Domestic Abuse EIDA
EIDA helps employers address domestic abuse by providing resources and support to create safe workplaces. They engage in campaigns and offer guidance on how employers can support employees experiencing domestic abuse.
Solace Women’s Aid
Solace provides support to women and children in London who are affected by domestic abuse and sexual violence. They offer services like refuges, legal advice, and community-based support.
Find out more about Solace Women’s Aid here.
Refuge
Refuge supports women and children experiencing domestic violence through various services, including emergency accommodation, community outreach, and a 24-hour helpline.
Women’s Aid
Women’s Aid works to end domestic violence against women and children by advocating for policy changes, raising public awareness, and providing training and resources.
Read more about Women’s Aid here.
Victim Support
Victim Support provides free and confidential support to victims of crime, including domestic abuse. They offer emotional and practical assistance to help victims cope and recover.
Visit Victim Support’s website here
Standing Together Against Domestic Violence
This organization coordinates efforts to improve responses to domestic violence through partnerships with various agencies, including the police, healthcare providers, and local councils.
Find out more about Standing Together Against Domestic Violence here.
Safe Haven
Safe Haven schemes in London provide safe spaces for people who feel threatened or at risk while out in public, particularly in retail and night-time environments. These are usually partnerships between local businesses, councils, and the police to offer immediate support and refuge for those in need.
Read more about Safe Haven here.
Respect
Respect works with male perpetrators of domestic violence to change their behaviour, as well as providing support for male victims of domestic abuse. Their programs aim to prevent violence and promote respectful relationships.
