Walking home at night

Your right to walk home

You have every right to walk home whenever you like. The responsibility for harassment or violence lies entirely with the person who does it — not with what you wore, where you walked, or what time it was.

The ideas below are simply options many women use to feel more in control. Choose what feels right for you; no tip is a rule, and not using one never makes anything your fault.

Plan your route

A little planning means you can walk confidently rather than checking your map at every corner:

• Choose main roads with lighting and people, even if it takes a few minutes longer.
• Note places along the way that are open late — petrol stations, shops, takeaways, hotels — where you could step in.
• Avoid shortcuts through parks, alleys or underpasses after dark if you have an alternative.
• If you're out somewhere new, look at the route on street view earlier in the day.

Let someone know

Telling someone you're on your way means someone notices if you don't arrive:

• Share your live location with a friend or partner through your phone's built-in feature or a safety app.
• Message when you leave and when you get in.
• Arrange to walk part of the way with friends, or ask a friend to stay on the phone with you.

Some cities and organisations run free 'walk with me' phone lines or app services. A quick search for your area can tell you what's available.

Stay aware of your surroundings

Being aware doesn't mean being afraid. Some women like to:

• Keep one earphone out, or music low, so they can hear around them.
• Walk facing oncoming traffic, so a car can't pull up behind unseen.
• Have keys ready before reaching the door.
• Keep phone, keys and cards in a front pocket or cross-body bag.

If a person or situation feels off, trust that feeling. You don't need evidence to change direction or cross the road.

What to do if you think you're being followed

If you think someone is following you:

• Cross the road and see if they do too. Change direction if needed.
• Head for light and people — a busy street, an open shop or a bar — and tell staff.
• Call a friend, or your local emergency number, and say clearly where you are.
• Avoid going straight home if you can, so they don't learn where you live.
• If someone grabs at your bag, let it go. Your safety matters more than your things.

Making noise or shouting 'Back off!' or 'Call the police!' can draw attention. A personal alarm can also help.

Safety apps and tools

Useful options include your phone's emergency SOS feature (often triggered by pressing a button several times), location-sharing apps, and dedicated personal-safety apps that alert contacts. A small personal alarm is legal almost everywhere.

Be aware that pepper spray and similar items are illegal to carry in many countries, so check local law. Set up emergency contacts and SOS shortcuts in your phone now, so you don't have to think about it in the moment.

If something happens

If you've been harassed, followed or attacked, it is not your fault. You can report to police if you choose, and specialist support services can help whether or not you report. TrustFem's /help page lists hotlines by country, and our community is here if you want to talk to other women.