Ashford Borough Council Launches WalkSafe App to Empower Community Safety

Ashford Borough Council is proud to announce the launch of WalkSafe, a free personal safety mobile app designed to help residents and visitors feel safer while moving around the borough.

Many people worry about walking alone at night, especially women and vulnerable groups. Within seconds of opening the app, WalkSafe can help to improve self-confidence and support users when out and about or if walking home.

The launch has been supported by funding from the Kent Police and Crime Commissioner and will coincide with two public events this month where residents can come along to learn more and also get help setting up the app.

How does it work?

WalkSafe provides real-time journey sharing, a national Safe Space map, and instant SOS alerts, allowing residents to plan safer routes and stay connected with trusted friends and family.

This means that before heading out, you’ll be able to share your route as well as ETA with trusted contacts. If you don’t arrive on time, those contacts will receive automatic notifications so that others can check up on your whereabouts.

The SOS button will also instantly alert those on your trusted list with your live location in situations where a user may feel unsafe.

Users will be able to report local safety concerns, such as poor lighting or crowded areas, to help others stay informed while WalkSafe also uses up-to-date police crime statistics to highlight hotspots and guide safer travel decisions.

Emma Kay, Founder of WalkSafe, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Ashford Borough Council onto our safety map, enabling users to plan safer experiences day to night. Our research shows that 81% of women who visit pubs, clubs, and bars consider their safety when getting home, and we’re proud to see Ashford's safety trained venues across the map, helping to bring a little extra confidence to those visiting and living in the area this winter time.

Cllr Katrina Giles, Portfolio Holder for Communities and Health at Ashford Borough Council, said: “Personal safety is a fundamental right. I’m delighted that we’re partnering with WalkSafe to bring this app to our community, helping everyone and especially women and girls feel safer and more confident when enjoying themselves in Ashford and Tenterden.”

“With the darker evenings now upon us, I encourage residents to attend one of our community events this November where you’ll be able to see first hand the benefits of WalkSafe and the reasons why you’ll never have to walk home feeling unsafe again.”

Public launch events

Residents are invited to attend either of the following public launch events to learn more about WalkSafe and get help setting up the app if needed:

County Square: 25 November, 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM 

Asda: 28 November, 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Get involved

For more information about WalkSafe visit the official WalkSafe website. WalkSafe is available to download now for free via the Google Play Store or Apple App Store simply by searching ‘WalkSafe’.