Green Flag Award has announced the launch of Safer Parks: Improving Access for Women and Girls’ second edition, a vital resource to guide those involved in designing, managing or securing public spaces. 

Developed in collaboration by the University of Leeds, West Yorkshire Combined Authority, Make Space for Girls and Keep Britain Tidy, the guidance discusses how to make women and girls feel safer in public spaces.

Key updates include new endorsements by Police Crime Prevention Initiatives (Police CPI), which strengthens the link between park design and crime prevention. 

There is also a practical focus built around three key themes including eyes on the park, awareness and inclusion, which offers clear principles and practical quick wins for park managers and police colleagues. 

The guidance is now shaping policy internationally through its established place within the Green Flag Award Scheme, enabling global reach. 

In mayor of West Yorkshire Tracy Brabin’s foreword, she writes:

“As we strive for a more just society, let us begin to change our parks to offer women and girls equality and safety in public space. The rewards will be amazing.”

The second edition guidance comes shortly after the Environmental Visual Evaluation Tool was developed, which was built on the same research in an effort to protect women and girls in public spaces by helping them feel safer. 

Access Safer Parks: Improving Access for Women and Girls guidance here.