Women Runners Urged to Stay Safe as Harassment Incidents Rise
A Growing Concern for Female Runners
Women across Surrey and Kent are being reminded to prioritise safety after a disturbing rise in harassment incidents targeting joggers. The issue came into sharp focus recently when a local runner reported being followed by a van with an obscured registration plate while exercising on a remote road. The experience left her deeply shaken and reluctant to return to what was previously her favourite running route. Such incidents aren't isolated—Surrey Police has recorded 105 sex-based harassment cases since April 2024, when new legislation protecting women from public sexual harassment came into force. Inspector Nicola West from Surrey Police emphasises that no woman should feel intimidated simply for choosing to exercise outdoors. Harassment takes many forms: from aggressive horn-beeping and intimidating gestures to unwanted comments about appearance. These seemingly minor incidents can have profound psychological impacts, deterring women from accessing public spaces and outdoor activities that benefit their physical and mental wellbeing. The Protection from Sex-based Harassment in Public Act 2023 now makes such behaviour a criminal offence, with maximum sentences reaching two years imprisonment.
Police Action and Community Support Initiatives
Law enforcement agencies across the region are taking decisive action through proactive campaigns. Surrey Police's relaunched ‘Jog On' initiative deploys female officers in running gear to patrol known harassment hotspots, visibly challenging predatory behaviour and reassuring runners. Meanwhile, Kent Police operates monthly women-only running groups in Ashford led by female officers, creating safe spaces for evening exercise. These schemes represent more than symbolic gestures—they're evidence-based approaches to community safety. Kent Police's Ashford Community Safety Unit also runs Project Vigilant, deploying plain-clothed and uniformed officers to identify and intervene in suspicious behaviour during evening hours. Community leaders, including Surrey Police and Crime Commissioner Lisa Townsend, stress the importance of public education about how behaviour affects others. Local business owners, organisations, and residents can support these initiatives by promoting awareness and encouraging incident reporting. Even bathroom fitters, bathroom refurbishment contractors, and other local tradespeople who work in residential areas play a role by remaining vigilant and reporting suspicious activity. The goal is creating a culture where safety is everyone's responsibility.
What Local Residents Should Do Now
If you're a regular runner or jogger in Surrey or Kent—whether you exercise near Guildford, Woking, Dorking, Horsley, or East Horsley—the police are urging you to report any harassment incidents immediately. Reporting is crucial because it helps officers identify patterns, pinpoint hotspot areas, and allocate resources effectively. Every report contributes to a clearer picture of where problems exist. Consider joining organised running groups in your area for added safety and community support. Vary your running times and routes, run with friends when possible, and stay alert to your surroundings. Trust your instincts—if something feels wrong, it probably is. Carry your phone, let someone know where you're going, and consider using running apps that share your location with trusted contacts. Local community groups, business associations, and residents can amplify safety messages through social media and community notice boards. Support local initiatives promoting women's safety, whether sponsoring community running events or simply checking on female neighbours and friends. Together, residents, business owners, and police can create environments where women feel confident exercising freely. No one should sacrifice their health and wellbeing due to fear or harassment.
Source: Jogger's fear after van follows her on remote road near Deal
