By Laura Bevan, Fortuna Female Society
Five Years of Reclaim the Night in Widnes
This year marks the fifth year that Fortuna Female Society has walked to Reclaim the Night in Widnes, Halton — five years of coming together, walking as the sun goes down, remembering women and girls whose lives have been lost to male violence, and raising awareness of why safe spaces are still so important.
Why Reclaim the Night Began
The walk began in response to the tragic murder of Sarah Everard. As the founder of an organisation supporting women and girls, and as a mum of two young girls, Sarah’s story deeply affected me, as it did so many people across the UK. With restrictions still in place at the time, our online vigil gave us an opportunity to reflect, but it didn’t provide the outlet that many of us needed. So, as soon as it was safe to do so, we put out a call: we would gather, walk together and remember Sarah and all those who had lost their lives to violence.
Building Positive Relationships With Local Police
It was also important to me that local police were involved. Following Sarah’s murder, trust in policing was at an all-time low, and I wanted to help create positive opportunities for women and girls to engage with local officers. If my daughters ever needed help, I wanted them to feel able to approach the police without fear.
Reclaiming the Night Together
That first walk was both positive and poignant. The response was incredible, with attendees sharing their experiences and asking what we would do next. Over the following years, we tried different dates and even battled some challenging weather, but every year we made sure we continued to walk together and reclaim the night.
Creating Safer Spaces for Women and Girls
We know that for many women and girls as the nights draw in they can become more isolated and less active. This event has now become a staple in the local community calendar, bringing together residents and local services, including the police and domestic abuse support organisations.
Walking Together as the Sun Goes Down
We begin with an empowering warm-up before setting off together for a lap of the park as daylight fades. At the end, we share powerful words and hold a minute’s silence to remember the women and girls whose lives have been lost to violence.
Everyone Has a Role in Reclaim the Night
The walk is open to everyone, and it is always heartening to see so many men and boys standing alongside women and girls in support.
Reclaim the Night Continues to Grow
With around 150 people joining us last year, Reclaim the Night continues to grow — a powerful reminder that when we walk together, we can create space for reflection, solidarity and change.
