This International Women’s Day, we’re celebrating the remarkable achievements of women across Greater Manchester and beyond. But we know there’s still more to do.
The theme for IWD 2025, ‘Accelerate Action’, is about pushing for gender equality and quickening the pace of progress. At Transport for Greater Manchester, we’re committed to making our transport network safer, more inclusive, and accessible for women and girls.
Here’s how we’re working to make a difference.
Cllr Tracey Rawlins: Disability Advocate and Executive Member
“On International Women’s Day, as we celebrate this year’s theme of ‘Accelerate Action,’ I want to recognise the women leading the way in Greater Manchester—women like Caroline Simpson, the first female group Chief Executive of the Combined Authority, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service and Transport for Greater Manchester, and Deputy Mayor Kate Green, driving real change in our city-region.
"As a Councillor, Executive Member, and now Disability Advocate on the Bee Network Committee, I know firsthand the importance of women’s voices in decision-making. In a male-dominated field, accelerating action means ensuring that policies reflect the realities women face. But just as crucially, tackling gender inequalities and gender-based violence isn’t just a women’s issue—it’s a societal one, and men must be part of the solution.
"That’s why I’m proud of the work being done in Greater Manchester to improve women’s safety, particularly across our transport network. From Strut Safe supporting those walking alone at night, to the Darker Nights campaign raising awareness, and the ‘See It, Say It, Sorted’ initiative encouraging people to report concerns, Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) and partners are taking real action.”
White Ribbon
Since gaining White Ribbon Accreditation in 2022, TfGM has:
- Launched our Active Bystander campaign, ‘#HelpTheScene…Intervene’, to help passengers recognise the signs of harassment, support someone targeted, and report incidents.
- Partnered with Strut Safe, a UK-wide phone line, to help keep women and girls safe when travelling on night bus services.
- Continued working with GM partners to ensure a joined-up approach to tackling gender-based violence across the transport network.
- Begun to embed an awareness of White Ribbon in our work with the community, schools and colleges.
We’re continuing to take action to help keep women and girls safe on Greater Manchester’s transport network.