Manchester City Council is set to enhance city safety with the launch of the WalkSafe app, scheduled for early September. The app, which is designed to make travel safer at any time of day, will allow users to select routes known for their safety and share their location with trusted contacts. If a user fails to arrive at their destination, an automatic alert will be sent to ensure help is on the way.

The introduction of WalkSafe is part of the council’s broader strategy to improve public safety, especially in the nighttime economy, with a particular emphasis on protecting women. This initiative follows heightened concerns about safety in urban areas, especially after the tragic deaths of Sarah Everard and Sabina Nessa.

Complementing this new app is the Women’s Night-time Safety Charter, introduced by the council in 2022. This charter offers free training and guidance to venues across Manchester, helping them promote safety and respond effectively to situations where someone might be at risk. The charter has received significant support, with numerous businesses in the nighttime economy committing to its principles.

Councillor Joanne Midgley, Deputy Leader of Manchester City Council, emphasized the importance of these initiatives: “We’ve seen a tremendous response to our Night-time Safety Charter, with businesses throughout Manchester uniting to create a safer city. Since its launch, we’ve trained hundreds of staff and provided critical resources to ensure venues are equipped to handle situations where someone may be in danger.”

She continued, “The arrival of the WalkSafe app in Manchester marks a significant advancement in our safety efforts. While we aim for a world where everyone can move freely without fear, it’s vital to implement measures that protect and empower our residents. In the coming months, we will be collaborating closely with partners across the city, including our nightlife sector, event organizers, and universities, to ensure everyone has access to tools that keep them safe.”

WalkSafe founder Emma Kay also expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership: “It’s an honor to collaborate with Manchester City Council on this crucial initiative. The council’s dedication to the safety of everyone in the city is evident, and we’re proud to support this effort.”

By introducing the WalkSafe app, Manchester City Council aims to empower both residents and visitors to feel secure, regardless of who they are, where they’re headed, or what time it is. This initiative represents a vital step towards creating a safer urban environment, reinforcing Manchester’s commitment to the well-being of its community.