Let’s Lift the Curfew: Our Commitment to Running Safely

When the clocks go back, most of us lose a little light — but for many women, we also lose a sense of freedom. The darker evenings mark the start of what often feels like an unspoken curfew — one that limits when and where we feel safe to move, train, and run.

At She Strides, we believe every woman should have the right to move freely, without fear. That’s why we’re joining the #LetsLiftTheCurfew campaign — a movement amplifying women’s voices to make physical activity safer and more inclusive.

About the Let’s Lift the Curfew campaign

Launched by Sport England in collaboration with This Girl Can, the Let’s Lift the Curfew campaign was created to raise awareness and promote a safer environment for women to engage in physical activity. England Athletics are backing the 2025 campaign, which returns for its third year, marking the official end of summertime with events and runs happening across the country.

The campaign shines a light on a reality too many women face: that something as simple as going for a run after dark can feel risky.

The reality: women still don’t feel safe running in the dark

A recent survey found that 72% of women in the UK don’t feel safe running after dark. It’s not just a feeling — it’s an everyday reality that shapes our choices.

A global running survey echoed the same story:

• Almost half of female runners have experienced harassment while running — anything from catcalling to being followed or intimidated.

• 60% of women have changed their routes to avoid certain areas.

• More than a third run less often, or stop solo running altogether, once daylight fades.

  
  

These aren’t just statistics — they’re missed miles, lost confidence, and quiet acts of self-censorship that shouldn’t exist.

What She Strides stands for

This campaign is something we’ve been practicing since our launch in 2024 — creating a safe space for women to run, connect, and feel empowered.

Every week, we host evening runs across seven locations, designed with safety and inclusivity at their core. Each session has a dedicated Safety Lead and trained pacers, with winter routes planned for extra lighting. We also hand out light-up scrunchies and wear reflective She Strides tops — because visibility matters, and safety should never be an afterthought.

Lifting the curfew starts with visibility

At She Strides, we’ve seen firsthand how community transforms confidence. Running together doesn’t just help women feel safer — it’s a statement that we belong outside, at any hour. We’re proud to stand with other clubs, brands, and organisations across the UK who are joining the movement. Together, we’re making a visible statement: we belong outside, at any hour.

Join us

This winter, we’re continuing to host evening runs to keep women moving, visible, and supported. Whether you’re returning to running, finding your stride, or just want company after dark — you’re welcome.