New rules to make night-time venues safe for women

Councils are bringing in new policies to protect women in night-time venues

Two councils are introducing new policies to make night-time venues safer for women.

Rotherham councillors are set to approve a new programme to tackle harassment and drink spiking. Bars and nightclubs will be expected to appoint a women's safety champion to lead on safeguarding and to train staff on how to respond to unacceptable behaviour.

In Sheffield, councillors are introducing a women's safety charter which means venues will have a formal responsibility to reduce violence against women.

Councillors from both authorities said the new policies would allow people to "relax and enjoy" pubs, bars and clubs safely.

Sheffield councillor Robert Reiss

Sheffield's Safe Square scheme, where volunteers help people on nights out who are in need, has been a success.

Councillor Robert Reiss, who brought the idea of a women's safety charter to a full council meeting, wants South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority, the Safer Sheffield Partnership Board and the South Yorkshire Violence Reduction Unit to fund the scheme beyond April 2026.

He said: "We welcome the work on anti-spiking and Sheffield Safe Square but more is needed. We should update the women's safety charter so venues know their responsibilities and women know which venues have their safety at heart.

"We want a city where people can come together, let their hair down and have a good time in places where they can relax, connect and enjoy life."

Rotherham Council said it wanted venues to train staff so they could identify and support people who may be at risk.

It says venues should have safe spaces with well-lit areas, mobile phone charging stations, drink covers, safe transport options and recuperation rooms.

The new policy also sets out tougher expectations for how venues manage security and protect the public. Licensed premises will be advised to ensure trained door supervisors are in place, with a recommended mix of male and female staff, particularly where customer searches are carried out.

Rotherham councillor John Williams said: "These practical measures will make a genuine difference. This policy is about creating a night time economy that works for everyone - where people feel safe, respected and supported."

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