Safety for women in Sutton

“The murder of Sarah Everard has brought home for many of us how vulnerable women and girls can feel on our streets. I would like to express my deepest sympathies for Sarah’s family. No women should feel unsafe in Sutton, whether that is while walking in the borough, or in their own homes.

Over the last week, I have spoken to many organisations and many residents in the borough to listen to the concerns Sutton’s women and girls have. I have been talking to Sutton Women’s Centre about how we can work together to drive change in the borough.

This evening we are lighting up the flagpole at the Civic Centre orange in memory of Sarah Everard and as a symbol of our commitment to eliminating violence against women and girls in Sutton.

Violence against women is, sadly, not new, but something which crosses generations. In the last few days we have all heard countless stories of harassment and violence against women as many step forward to share their experiences. Having open and frank conversations is important, but we need to ensure that we learn from those conversations and use that learning to make a real difference. 

At Sutton Council, we are committed to working closely with residents and organisations to ensure that women’s safety is seen as the responsibility of all residents. 

We are determined that women and men alike should feel safe in the borough and live free from harassment, intimidation or violence. We must all work together to keep Sutton safe.”