A recent survey reveals widespread concern among UK women about commuting in the dark, with many ready to change their patterns.
- One in three working women reports feeling unsafe commuting after dark, highlighting a pervasive issue that requires attention.
- A staggering 85% of UK women express willingness to alter their commute to daylight hours to enhance personal safety.
- A majority of respondents advocate for flexible work options to enable safer commuting during darker months.
- The emotional impact of dark commutes is significant, with many women feeling uneasy, anxious, or vulnerable.
A survey conducted by Remote has illuminated the pervasive discomfort among UK women regarding commuting in the dark. This concern is not unfounded, as nearly one in three women report feeling unsafe during such commutes. The sentiment reflects a broader societal issue that emphasizes the need for safety in everyday activities, particularly as only certain sections of the population can take their security for granted.
The data shows that 85% of UK women would prefer to adjust their commuting patterns to ensure travel during daylight. Such a majority underscores the necessity for businesses to reassess their policies and offer enhanced flexible work options. This change could significantly boost confidence and security for women traveling to and from work.
Sentiments of unease dominate the experiences of many women, with 47% reporting feelings of being uneasy. Additional descriptors include feelings of anxiety (44%) and vulnerability (40%). The survey findings are supported by prior research from the ONS, confirming that such feelings are not isolated incidents.
Younger women are markedly more concerned, with a notable 92% of those aged 16-24 expressing intentions to change their commuting habits to daylight. This statistic points to a potential link between age-related vulnerability and experiences of harassment, as reported by over half of women in the younger demographic.
Regional variations also highlight distinct challenges. Women in Greater London reported higher levels of feeling unsafe at 42%, a figure mirrored in the North East. Such feelings are compounded by notable cases of violence against women, reinforcing the urgent need for strategic interventions by employers.
Advocacy for flexible work is strongest among women in Wales, Northern Ireland, England, and Scotland, with a resounding call for workplace policies that allow commuting during safer hours. Despite this, there remains a gap in employer support, with 55% of respondents uncertain about their employer’s willingness to accommodate such changes.
The perception of unease varies across industries, with those in sales, media, and marketing expressing the most concern. Women in legal and retail sectors similarly reported feelings of anxiety and vulnerability. The alignment of workplace practices with employee safety needs is vital, yet remains inconsistent.
Commenting on these findings, Nadia Vatalidis of Remote emphasizes that safety concerns disproportionately affect women, necessitating corporate responsibility and proactive policy adjustments. Remote work options, including asynchronous working, could play a vital role in facilitating safer commuting choices for all employees.
Flexible work options are crucial for ensuring women’s safety during commutes in darker hours.
