"Safe spaces for women start with action": Northamptonshire Charter to tackle workplace concerns
Deputy Commissioner calls on organisations to improve women’s safety at work
Last updated 3rd Feb 2026
The Northamptonshire Women’s Charter is urging more organisations to join the county-wide initiative to create safer and more inclusive workplaces for women.
Launched by Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Danielle Stone, in November 2025, the Charter calls for employers to commit to listening to women’s concerns, addressing workplace safety, and taking steps toward cultural change.
Deputy Commissioner Marianne Kimani, explained: “We want organisations across Northamptonshire to show they are committed to protecting women in their workplaces.
''The Women’s Charter is a call to action, asking employers to create workplaces where women feel safe, respected, and able to thrive without fear or harassment.”
A total of 42 organisations have already signed up and pledged their dedication to safeguarding women through tangible measures.
Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Danielle Stone commented: “The incredible momentum behind the Women’s Charter shows just how many organisations across Northamptonshire want to play an active part in improving safety for women and girls.
“Reaching 42 organisations is an important milestone, but this is only the beginning. I encourage more employers to join us, use the free tools on offer, and help shape a county where women’s safety is treated as everyone’s responsibility.”
Each organisation that signs up receives access to the Commissioner’s free Charter Toolkit, which includes specialist survey support, practical training packages, guidance for SMEs on developing safeguarding‑focused workplace policies, and information designed to help employers respond effectively to women’s safety concerns.
Kimani explained, “The support we’ve had so far is fantastic, but to make a real impact, we need many more organisations to commit to this effort. Every organisation has a role to play.”
''We can't fix women's safety in one day.''
Kimani explained by workplaces signing the Charter it demonstrates the organisation’s commitment to fostering inclusive spaces where women feel safe and valued. She said:
“When workplaces prioritise women’s safety, they boost productivity, investment in employees, and the wellbeing of their workforce overall. Safer environments benefit everyone – not just women, but entire organisations and communities.”
Alison Farr, Crime Manager at Northamptonshire Business Crime Partnership Ltd, said in a statement:
“At the Northamptonshire Business Crime Partnership, we were delighted to sign up to the Women’s Charter as it is essential that we all create safe working environments where everyone is treated with respect and feels safe.
Industries such as transport and hospitality, where safety concerns can extend beyond the workplace to customer interactions, are particularly encouraged to join, as these sectors play a critical role in wider community safety.
Kimani added: “Having employers in these industries sign the Charter is vital. Better workplace safety spills over—it benefits customers, families, and communities, making Northamptonshire a safer place for everyone.”
Violence against women and girls has been declared a “national emergency,” driving the launch of national strategies and frameworks. “We can’t solve women’s safety overnight, but we can all take action now to make workplaces safer and more inclusive. Change starts with each organisation stepping forward," Kimani added.
To find out more about signing up visit: www.northantspfcc.org.uk and for support and advice about sexual harassment in the workplace visit www.rightsofwomen.org.uk or call Police on 101 or 999 in an emergency.