We are excited to announce the launch of a new safety app - WalkSafe

WalkSafe is for anyone to use, regardless of gender. WalkSafe is a mobile app that allows users to share their location with trusted contacts, plan safe routes, and access real-time safety alerts. It also includes features such as:

· Live location sharing with family or friends

· Route planning with safety ratings based on local crime data

· Emergency alerts that can be triggered quickly if the user feels unsafe

· Check-ins to let loved ones know they’ve arrived safely

In the Maidstone Town Centre, we have introduced 20 safe spaces. These venues offer a variety of different features that can help you. For example, phone charging stations or menstrual products. As well as helping you if you feel unsafe, whether that is supporting you until a family member can arrive or even contacting police or local security.

The app also allows users to report local issues, for example poor street lighting and cat-calling. This data is fed back to police, allowing for targeted operations and improvements to the local community.

Today officers were at Fremlin Walk, talking and engaging with members of public about the app and other safety advice. OneMaidstone and Switch Youth Services have been detrimental to the creation of safe spaces and continued work to improve safety in the Maidstone Town Centre. They also attended the event to help promote the app.

The app is available to download for free on the app store.