Walking isn’t only good for our physical, social and mental health. It’s also good for our communities, the environment and the economy.
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Figures from our Scottish Walking and Wheeling Survey reveal that nearly 40% of women in Scotland say they’d walk more if they felt safer after dark, compared to just 24% of men.
The study of more than 2,000 adults also shows women are more likely to highlight a lack of lighting and safe paths as major barriers to walking in their communities.
Feeling unsafe after dark should never be the reason someone chooses not to walk. Yet it’s the reality for too many women across Scotland.
We’re calling for urgent action for safer routes to tackle these barriers and ensure every woman can enjoy the benefits of walking.
This festive period we want to shine a light on the changes that would make a difference, from better lighting and crossings to improved paths and inclusive design.
The findings highlight safety as a concern for all age groups surveyed, with younger women, especially those aged 16 to 24 years, even more likely to avoid walking during both the day and night because they feel unsafe.
Better lighting, having someone to walk with and improved pavements all feature as key changes that would encourage women to walk more often. In fact, 28% of women cited poor lighting as a concern, compared to just 20% of men.
“Walking is the simplest, most accessible form of exercise, but only when people feel confident and secure doing it. Right now, for too many women, that isn’t the case. Our vision is for a Scotland where walking is the easy, safe and enjoyable choice for everyone. To achieve that, we need to invest in the conditions that allow people to walk without fear.” Tess Gee, our Communications and Policy Manager
Tess Gee, our Communications and Policy Manager
The wider survey shows walking is more popular than ever. More than 85% of Scots walk or wheel at least several times a week, with many recognising the mental and physical health benefits of being active.
However, this rise masks deep inequalities. Just 55% of all respondents feel safe walking alone after dark, dropping sharply among women and those living in less well-connected areas.
We’re urging local and national leaders to commit to investment in safety-led infrastructure changes, calling for a long-term National Path Fund to ensure every community has access to safe, well-maintained routes.
Another organisation which has seen a surge in demand for its services due to people feeling unsafe walking after dark is Strut Safe.
The volunteer-operated and non-judgemental support line provides companionship and reassurance to individuals who feel unsafe walking alone.
“We are a volunteer-run phone line offering a real person on the other end of the call to keep you company until you get home safely. Far too often, women and marginalised people change their plans, limit their movement or walk in fear. Strut Safe exists to combat that fear, and demand for our services is growing. Walking Scotland’s survey findings highlight a simple truth: people want to walk more, but they need to feel safe doing it.” Laur Convery, Head of Outreach (Partnerships and Events) at Strut Safe
Laur Convery, Head of Outreach (Partnerships and Events) at Strut Safe
Published: 24 December 2025
