New Initiative Aims to Enhance Safety for Solo Gig-Goers

Table of Contents

1. Key Highlights
2. Introduction
3. The Rising Concern of Solo Travel Among Concert-Goers
4. Strut Safe: Offering Reassurance and Support
5. The Cultural Shift toward Safety Awareness
6. Impact on Gig Attendance
7. The Future of Event Safety Initiatives
8. Conclusion
9. FAQ

Key Highlights

• A recent study reveals that 27% of women are deterred from attending concerts due to safety concerns about traveling home alone.
• The initiative by viagogo and Uber, in collaboration with Strut Safe, aims to provide resources and discounts for those traveling to gigs, particularly late at night.
• The partnership highlights the ongoing challenges of safety for marginalized communities, including women and LGBTQ+ individuals, who experience heightened fear when returning home after events.

Introduction

Imagine finding out your favorite artist is performing just an hour away but you hesitate because of safety concerns about journeying home alone late at night. A recent survey from the ticketing marketplace viagogo highlights that this fear is all too common: 27% of women feel intimidated by the thought of making that trip solo. The broader context reveals that these apprehensions can significantly impact attendance at live events, particularly among women and LGBTQ+ individuals, who are most affected.

This article delves into the implications of these findings and introduces a new initiative launched by viagogo and Uber, in partnership with the support line Strut Safe, designed to alleviate these fears and empower concert-goers to attend live performances without trepidation.

The Rising Concern of Solo Travel Among Concert-Goers

The viagogo study reflects a growing trend: a notable 35% of women express worries about returning home after attending gigs. The anxiety peaks for marginalized groups—41% of women and 37% of LGBTQ+ individuals report heightened fears regarding public travel and late-night journeys. It’s clear that public transport, especially during off-peak hours, can often feel like a gamble, particularly for those who may face discrimination or harassment.

Fear of Public Spaces

For many, attending live music events should be an exhilarating experience, yet concerns loom large.

• Public Transport Anxiety: Many individuals fear the unpredictability of public transport, especially during late hours.
• Isolation in Transit: Nearly half of the surveyed women have found themselves in situations where they wished they had access to safety tools or support systems yet did not have them.
• Vulnerable Locations: Certain spots, such as venue parking lots, become sources of anxiety when crowds disperse after a concert.

In a society that prides itself on diversity and inclusion, the fact that such fears persist raises important questions about how public spaces can better cater to the needs of their most vulnerable users.

Strut Safe: Offering Reassurance and Support

The partnership with Strut Safe aims to fill the existing gap in safety resources available to gig-goers. Strut Safe operates a support line (0333 335 0026) designed to provide companionship and support for those traveling alone.

Michelle, Director of Strategy at Strut Safe, emphasizes the necessity of such measures. “The increase in calls to Strut Safe reflects ongoing safety concerns around traveling alone at night, especially among people of marginalized genders,” she shared.

This initiative is not simply about addressing fears; it’s about enabling autonomy and encouraging more individuals to partake in public life without the constant burden of safety concerns.

Collaborations for Greater Impact

As a crucial part of this initiative, viagogo and Uber are providing a £10 discount for trips taken between 8 PM and 6 AM, helping fans access this safety initiative more affordably. Matt Drew, Business Development Lead at viagogo, underscores the importance of the collaboration: “Our mission is to help more fans access live events. That’s why we’re going beyond the event itself… to address some of the barriers fans experience.”

Moreover, Mollie Moric, Co-chair of Women at Uber, mentioned the commitment to safety ingrained in their services: “Safety is built into every step of the journey with Uber because everyone deserves to feel safe and supported when traveling.”

The Cultural Shift toward Safety Awareness

This initiative signifies a broader cultural shift as more organizations recognize the need to address safety concerns head-on. The increasing availability of safety tools and resources may encourage more individuals to step out and experience life without the looming cloud of anxiety.

Historical Context of Concert Safety

The imperative for safety in public spaces comes at a time when societal awareness around such issues is at an all-time high. Historically, women and marginalized communities have often been subjected to heightened risks in social settings. This project not only addresses a present need but connects with ongoing conversations about safety, public transport, and the accessibility of entertainment.

Real-world examples of harm in concert settings have galvanized discussions surrounding venue safety protocols and the importance of community support networks. As such, the partnership between viagogo, Uber, and Strut Safe is essential in reinforcing the commitment to safe environments for all.

Impact on Gig Attendance

Encouraging gig-goers to feel secure while attending live performances could have astonishing effects on attendance rates, contributing to the sustainability of the live music industry, which has faced challenges during and post-pandemic.

Increased Participation from Marginalized Groups

With the introduction of supportive measures, organizations aim to foster greater participation from groups that previously felt alienated or unsafe. Safety is not merely a practical concern but a vital aspect influencing social experiences:

• Inclusivity in Live Events: Safe environments promote diversity and inclusivity at performances, ensuring music can be enjoyed without fear.
• Support and Companionship: Access to peer support can radically shift the experience for those concerned about traveling alone.

The Future of Event Safety Initiatives

As the initiative evolves and awareness grows, reflections on the changing landscape of audience engagement and public safety are essential.

Ongoing Evaluation and Adaptation

Future developments might look to integrate technology with social safety initiatives. Mobile applications that combine event listings with community safety features—like crowd-sourced safety reports or real-time requests for companions—could further revolutionize how fans attend live events.

Community Awareness Campaigns

Beyond providing services, organizations may increasingly invest in campaigns focused on safety education and awareness which can, in turn, cultivate a community-centric approach to security.

Conclusion

Returning to concerts and live events should feel invigorating, not intimidating. Efforts like the partnership between viagogo, Uber, and Strut Safe represent a significant step towards dismantling the barriers that prevent individuals from fully engaging in public life. As these initiatives gain momentum, they not only redefine the gig-going experience but also contribute to a larger movement advocating for comprehensive safety in public spaces.

FAQ

What is the new initiative launched by viagogo?

The initiative, in partnership with Strut Safe and Uber, aims to provide safety resources and a £10 Uber discount for those traveling alone after late-night gigs.

Who does this initiative target?

Primarily targeted toward women and LGBTQ+ individuals, the initiative aims to address specific safety concerns faced by marginalized groups when traveling to and from live events.

How can I access the £10 Uber discount?

To redeem the discount, Uber users can enter the voucher code ‘ruGtzslERHA’ in the ‘wallet’ section of the app, valid for one use per user during late-night rides (8 PM - 6 AM).

What is Strut Safe?

Strut Safe is a support line providing reassurance and companionship to individuals traveling alone, particularly at night.

Why is this initiative important?

The initiative addresses prevalent concerns regarding safety in public spaces, facilitating a more inclusive environment that encourages attendance at live performances, thereby promoting a vibrant cultural atmosphere.