Wednesday, October 14, 2026
Women taking part in group runs in South Ribble are set to benefit from an innovative new safety initiative thanks to a partnership between Lancashire Police and a local running club.
The project, which is called ‘Her Right to Roam’ and led by South Ribble PCSO Danni Berry, has secured funding from the Lancashire Partnership Against Crime (LANPAC) to purchase a body-worn video camera which will be used during organised club runs at all-female running group South Ribble Runners, based at Leyland Leisure Centre.
Last night, (Tuesday 13th October 2025), runners from the club were presented with the camera which will be worn by the lead runner and is designed to act as a visible deterrent to low-level harassment, cat-calling, intrusive staring and other unwanted behaviour, while also helping to gather evidence should any criminal offences take place.
The initiative was developed following engagement with women in the local community and forms part of #GetTheMessage, a behaviour change campaign aimed and men and boys from Lancashire’s Police and Crime Commissioner, highlighting the impact of low-level harassment, championing safety for women and girls and ensuring everyone feels safe when using public spaces.
A recent survey from the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner found a significant proportion of women in Lancashire felt compelled to restrict their behaviour, with 93% surveyed avoiding areas they deemed unsafe, and 91% crossing the street to avoid men.
The body-worn camera will be used on group runs and sends a clear message that harassment of women and girls will not be tolerated in South Ribble.
PCSO Danni Berry said: "Women and girls should never have to think twice about going for a run because of concerns about harassment or intimidation."
"We know that even low-level behaviours such as cat-calling can have a significant impact on how safe women feel, and that's why it's important that we take action."
"We take all reports of harassment seriously and hope the presence of the body-worn camera will act as a deterrent, but if incidents do occur it will also help us gather valuable evidence and support any investigation.”
Sam Daglish from the South Ribble Runners said: “'We are incredibly proud to support the ‘Her Right to Roam’ campaign.
“For many women, the simple act of going for a run requires a mental checklist of safety precautions. By introducing the camera for our group runs, we hope this will be an immediate deterrent against any form of harassment.
“Women and girls shouldn’t have to adjust their routes, or abandon fitness goals for fear of intimidation or worry about the risk of sexual harassment, intimidation or abuse when exercising outdoors, especially after dark'.
Clive Grunshaw, Lancashire Police and Crime Commissioner, said: "I fully support initiatives like this, and the event provides a valuable opportunity to highlight my #GetTheMessage campaign, which challenges misogyny and harassment across Lancashire.
"With the Protection from Sex-based Harassment in Public Act now in force, the message is clearer than ever: public sexual harassment is a crime.
"Preventing violence against women and girls is the top priority in my Police and Crime Plan, and I will continue to support Lancashire Constabulary in its efforts to tackle misogyny and harassment, helping to ensure our county remains a safe place for everyone."
Al Yusuf, LANPAC Manager said: “LANPAC is delighted to support this initiative, which aims to enhance the safety and confidence of women taking part in outdoor activities.
“Her Right to Roam’ is a practical and proactive project that not only helps reassure runners but also reinforces the message that harassment and intimidation of women and girls is unacceptable.
“We congratulate PCSO Danni Berry and South Ribble Runners for working together to develop a solution that promotes safer public spaces and encourages more women to enjoy running without fear or concern."
Anyone experiencing harassment, intimidation or criminal behaviour is encouraged to report it to Lancashire Police via the force website, by calling 101, or by dialling 999 in an emergency.