New ‘Safer Gym’ Scheme Targets Harassment of Women at the Gym
Eleanor Smalley, a former PCSO turned Project Manager for Newark and Sherwood’s Safer Streets initiative, has launched a new campaign to tackle harassment of women in gyms. After experiencing an unsettling encounter at her own gym, Eleanor saw a glaring gap in protection for women in these spaces.
Survey Reveals Alarming Gym Harassment Statistics
Safer Streets, a partnership between Nottinghamshire Police, The Police and Crime Commissioner, and the local council, has expanded its strategy to include violence against women and girls. As part of this, Eleanor developed the Safer Gym Group scheme and kicked off a survey that’s already pulled in over 400 responses.
- Over 25% of women said they faced uncomfortable interactions at the gym.
- A massive 75% never reported these incidents to gym staff or police.
- More than 30% left the gym because of harassment—and some never came back.
Reported incidents include unsolicited help with equipment, being stared at, inappropriate comments, and even having photos taken without consent.
Eleanor Speaks Out: “Gyms Must Be Safe Spaces”
“I had an experience at the gym which opened my eyes,” Eleanor said. “Gyms aren’t just for physical health – they’re vital for mental wellbeing and socialising. People are missing out if these issues aren’t addressed.”
“We want to stamp out this behaviour before it escalates. Everyone should feel empowered to challenge harassment.”
“The survey has been eye-opening. Some women feel forced to set up home gyms to avoid harassment. That has to change.”
Firm Action Planned to Make Gyms Safer
Once the survey wraps up, Safer Streets will launch the official Safer Gym Group. Gyms signing up will pledge zero tolerance to sexual harassment, provide staff training, and ensure women know how and where to report incidents.
This initiative complements Nottinghamshire Police’s wider campaign against violence towards women and girls, funded by the Police and Crime Commissioner, Caroline Henry.
Caroline Henry said: “Gyms might not be my natural stomping ground, but everyone deserves to feel safe there. No one should have to change their exercise routine because they’re scared.”
Insp Charlotte Ellam, District Commander for Newark and Sherwood, added: “This is a fantastic initiative. We need more people to complete the survey and share their experiences so we can tackle these issues head-on. We’re hoping to expand this countywide as part of our commitment to protecting women and girls.”
