Four in 10 women would walk more if they felt safer in the dark, survey finds

Almost four in 10 women in Scotland would walk more often if they felt safer after dark, a survey has found.

In comparison, just 24% of men say they would walk more if they felt safer at night.

The figures have led to campaigners calling for improved lighting, paths and infrastructure in order to close the “walking gap”.

Walking Scotland chose the winter period to highlight the need for such improvements.

Tess Gee, of the charity, said: “Feeling unsafe after dark should never be the reason someone chooses not to walk. Yet it’s the reality for too many women across Scotland.

“This data gives us a clear message: women want to walk more but they need to feel safe doing it. As a society, we have a responsibility to listen to that.

“This festive period we want to shine a light on the changes that would make a difference, from better lighting and crossings to improved paths and inclusive design.”

A representative group of more than 2,000 adults were surveyed in Scotland over the summer by 56 Degree Insight.

Some in all age groups cited safety concerns as reasons they avoid walking during the day and night, but women aged 16 to 24 are the most likely to do so.

The survey found 28% of women cite poor lighting as a concern, compared to 20% of men.

However the wider survey found walking is becoming a more popular activity than ever, with 85% saying they walk or wheel at least several times a week.

Just 55% said they feel safe walking alone in the dark and 39% of women said feeling safer would encourage them to walk more.

Meanwhile, a group called Strut Safe which offers phone line support to people walking alone at night has said demand for its services is surging.

Head of outreach Laur Convery said: “We are a volunteer-run phone line offering a real person on the other end of the call to keep you company until you get home safely.

“Far too often, women and marginalised people change their plans, limit their movement or walk in fear.

“Strut Safe exists to combat that fear, and demand for our services is growing. For many shift workers, people living in rural areas, and those on low incomes, walking at night is not a choice but a necessity.

“Walking Scotland’s survey findings highlight a simple truth: people want to walk more, but they need to feel safe doing it.”

Strut Safe’s helpline is available during evening and nighttime hours between Thursday and Sunday, on 0333 335 0026.