Women in Barking and Dagenham have raised concerns about places in the borough where they do not feel safe - something the council is "determined to put right".

Key areas such as Barking town centre, Heathway in Dagenham, car parks and parks kept coming up when women were asked in a council survey, the authority said.

Behaviours such as staring, following and wolf whistling were highlighted as making women feel anxious or scared.

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Barking and Dagenham Council said it has made women's safety a top priority after receiving this information.

Barking and Dagenham Post: Barking and Dagenham Council said it is working with the police to promote women's safetyBarking and Dagenham Council said it is working with the police to promote women's safety (Image: LBBD)

Councillor Syed Ghani, cabinet member for enforcement and community Safety said: "We don’t want anybody to feel unsafe when they’re out and about in the borough, whether it’s during the day or night.

"Women in the borough have made us aware that they don’t feel safe in certain locations in Barking and Dagenham, and we’re determined to put this right.

"We’re working closely with the police to ensure we’re focusing on the right areas that need addressing."

The council currently has a ten-strong community safety enforcement team that works with the police. 

The team patrols hotspots, including London Road and Heathway car parks as well as parks in the borough.

Signage has also been installed by the council to make people aware that they are patrolled regularly by enforcement officers and the police.

There are a number of CCTV cameras in a bid to put off anyone who is looking to cause antisocial behaviour.

Lighting is continually being improved, according to the council, and the authority is in the process of overhauling the CCTV systems to increase coverage across Barking and Dagenham.

The council also said that it is speaking "directly" to men to warn them of the impact of their behaviours through a borough-wide advertising campaign.

This advertising is on railing banners, roadside posters, park banners, signage in London Road car park, bus interiors and at train stations.

A/Supt Lisa Butterfield said: "Tackling violence against women and girls is a priority for the Metropolitan Police.

"Key elements of how we improve women’s safety, and feelings of safety, include working with partners and communities.

"We want women and communities to continue to talk to us and help improve where they live and work for all.

"We welcome the behavioural change focus in Barking and Dagenham, we will work together to challenge perpetrators to change their behaviours. 

"Women’s safety is our priority and this joint partnership project will enhance our efforts to prevent violence against women and girls."