Sheffield business owners join forces to tackle violence against women and girls

The Charter is free for businesses to sign up in a pledge to help make women's safety a priority in the city

Sheffield businesses have joined forces to try to make the city safer for women and girls.

The Charter aims to tackle violence against women and girls to ensure they can enjoy the city without fear of harassment.placeholder image
The Charter aims to tackle violence against women and girls to ensure they can enjoy the city without fear of harassment. | Valeriia - stock.adobe.com

Businesses including favourites from Leah’s Yard, popular nightlife spots and the Odeon cinema are looking at steps organisations can take to tackle intimidation.

Sheffield City Council launched its Women and Girls Safety Charter on Tuesday, November 10.

The Charter aims to tackle violence against women and girls to ensure they can enjoy the city without fear of harassment.

Councillor Mark Rusling, chairman of Sheffield Council’s Environmental Services and Regulatory Policy Committee, said: “Nobody should feel unsafe in any part of our city. Men have a duty to lead this work, and this charter is a step in the right direction.

“More organisations across Sheffield are signing the Charter all the time and we hope that more will sign up at the event and play their part in making our city safe and welcoming for everyone.”

Businesses involved in the Charter aim to regularly review safety of women and girls in the city’s nighttime economy, such as looking into improved street lighting, CCTV and private spaces.

Jules Gray, Owner and Founder at Hop Hideout in Leah’s Yard said: “We signed up to the Charter because championing safety, equality, and inclusion is vital for our community to thrive.

“I’m proud Sheffield is taking proactive steps to make sure that our city is a place where women and girls feel safe, respected, and welcome.”

The Sheffield Women and Girls Safety Charter is free for businesses to sign up in a pledge to help make women’s safety a priority in the city.

News you can trust since 1887
Follow us
© 2026 Iconic Media Group Ltd. All rights reserved.Cookie SettingsTerms and ConditionsPrivacy notice