Women are joining police officers on patrol in south London to share their concerns about safety, particularly in public spaces.

A new "walk and talk" initiative has been set up by the Metropolitan Police in Lambeth and Southwark in an attempt to end violence against women and girls.

Twenty-five female neighbourhood officers are teaming up with women from within the community to walk the streets of south London and hear of their experiences, concerns and reflections.

Patrols will take place at times when there are fewer people, less traffic and light for officers to try to understand the worries facing local women. 

Sergeant Becky Perkins, Central South Neighbourhoods Team and who leads the initiative, said: 

“We know there are many women out there who don’t feel completely safe walking London’s streets and we want those women to know we are here for you, we are listening and we are doing all we can to make the streets safer.

Recent events have heightened concerns around violence amongst women in London, and the Met understands and shares those concerns.

"We appreciate and acknowledge public concern and anger, and the desire for action to be taken which keeps women and girls safe. We agree."

Walk and Talk participant Miriam Wickham said: “It’s good to know that the Met is trying to listen to the public, make changes and really see how women feel.”