Women and girls still changing behaviour to avoid harassment

Concerns about sexual harassment and intimidation affect how many women aged 16–34 experience fitness and leisure centres, according to new research published this month.

Sport England's latest Activity Check-in report found that almost one in five women (19%) in this age group say they feel uncomfortable or unsafe in these environments because of the possibility of harassment or intimidation.

The findings build on This Girl Can’s 2022 research with ukactive, which found that personal safety and confidence can be significant barriers for women and girls when participating in physical activity.

Claire Edwards, Sport England, Head of Campaign Activation, said: "Four years on from our initial study, this updated research shows that too many women are still adapting their behaviour to avoid harassment.

"If we want more women and girls to be active, we cannot ignore the barriers that make them feel unwelcome, uncomfortable or unsafe.

"Many organisations across the sector are already taking positive action but this research highlights there is still more to do."

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Image credit: Sport England