‘Women must be able to walk without fear’-Redbridge Council issue first ever fine using their PSPO against catcalling and harassment.

On Friday December 16 Britain’s first ever £100 fine was issued to a male for sexual harassment using the council’s Public Space Protection Order to enforce against catcalling and harassment. As part of Operation Newhalem in Ilford, Redbridge Enforcement officers witnessed a female getting harassed and with the help of the local police, detained the male responsible.

Well done to Redbridge Council in particular Councillor Jas Athwal, Leader of the Council and Councillor Khayer Chowdhury. Both are extremely dedicated to tackling violence against women and girls and this is another fantastic step forward in the battle.

Council Leader Jas Athwal said: “We are the first council in the country using our Public Space Protection Order to enforce against catcalling and harassment.”

The male will now have to pay the £100 fine within 28 days or go to court and face potential prison. As part of the operation, officers also arrested a male for domestic violence related assault and possession of a weapon.

Councillor Chowdhury said: “Working with our Met Police partners, we are delivering a key recommendation from Redbridge Crime Commission to make our streets safer for women.

“We are showing total zero tolerance to catcalling and sexual harassment in Redbridge. Women must be able to walk without fear.”

A fantastic community partnership between Redbridge Council and the Met Police to tackle violence against women and girls.