Lancashire's new women and girls' champion vows to push for change

Commitment to Safer Communities for Women and Girls Across Lancashire

A mum of two has taken on the important role of Lancashire County Council’s Champion for Combatting Sexual Exploitation and Violence Against Women and Girls, reinforcing the council’s commitment to making communities safer for everyone.

A Personal Commitment to Change

‍County Councillor Close, 35, who is also the ward member for Leyland South, said she is passionate about making a real difference for women and girls across Lancashire.

CC Close said:

^{“I’ve got two very young children, and I want to know that they’re growing up feeling safe and supported. There are lots of charities and partnerships doing excellent work, and I want to be out there with them — listening, learning and contributing wherever I can.}

^{“I’m passionate about working with partners and charities, councillors and schools to improve things for women and girls across our region.”}

Safety Is Not Optional

Cllr Close made clear that safety must be non-negotiable:

^{“Every woman and girl in Lancashire has the right to feel safe — in their community, online, at school, in the workplace and on public transport. That is non-negotiable.}

^{“I want my daughters, and every girl in this country, to grow up confident, safe and supported. Women and girls should not have to adjust their daily lives to avoid harm or fear.”}

From Words to Action

‍In practical terms, the role will see a working group established to tackle the issue at ground level. This will include visits to schools, listening directly to teachers and pupils, and ensuring lived experiences help shape action.

The focus will include:

• Making sure victims and survivors are heard and supported
• Prevention and education from an early age
• Improving practical safety measures in local communities
• Challenging attitudes and behaviours that normalise abuse
• Working closely with police, schools, health services and charities

Education, Prevention and Support

County Councillor Close added:

^{“We need to start with education and prioritise prevention and victim support, while making sure victims are heard and not silenced.}

^{“The world has moved on so much since I was at school. I can’t even imagine what it’s like now with WhatsApp, social media and the pressures young people face every day.”}

Improving Safety in Everyday Life

She also highlighted practical issues around safety, particularly on transport:

^{“There are real concerns around women’s safety when travelling — things like CCTV in taxis, raising awareness of why it matters, and recognising how vulnerable many women feel when walking alone.}

^{“There are practical things we can do to make a real difference.”}

A Shared Responsibility

Vowing to work tirelessly to improve safety across Lancashire, Cllr Close said:

^{“Feeling unsafe should never be considered a normal part of life. Nobody should have to change their behaviour or stay silent to stay safe.}

^{“This is not just a women’s issue — it’s a societal one, and we all have a role to play in ending violence, intimidation and harassment.}

^{“We will listen, we will act, and we will bring about real change. Women and girls across Lancashire deserve to live free from fear, and I will work tirelessly to help make that a reality.”}