1 June 2025: I have had a varied career, starting as a teacher of geography at a remote private school where, as a 23-year-old, I was the only woman on staff. I had to manage unruly teenage boys and instill in them an appreciation for the world outside. Then I worked on the Cumbria police force dealing with crimes and misdemeanours that ranged from drunks in the street to terrible accidents. In doing these jobs, I learned a number of self-defence techniques for women that come in handy when dealing with the stream of baddies my daughters Mae and Isla seem to encounter and who are described in The Lakeland Mysteries – dastardly Darren Fletcher will certainly never forget our encounter!
But let’s start with something simple, something that many of us have to deal with from time to time. Simple, stupid harassment when you’re out doing your shopping.
Street Harassment
In a street harassment situation, the initial steps involve disengaging and making yourself a less attractive target. This can include firmly setting verbal boundaries, using a personal safety alarm if available, and drawing attention to the harassment by shouting if it feels safe. If possible, attempt to escape the situation by crossing the street or entering a nearby shop.
Street harassment is unfortunately a reality for many, but there are effective self-defence techniques that can help you stay safe and assert control over the situation. Here are some key strategies:
- Awareness & Prevention
- Trust your instincts – If something feels off, act on it.
- Stay alert – Avoid distractions like looking at your phone while walking.
- Project confidence – Walk with purpose and maintain strong posture.
- Use your voice – A firm, loud “Back off!” can deter an aggressor.
- Physical Self-Defence Moves
- Palm strike – Aim for the nose or chin with the base of your palm.
- Elbow strike – A powerful move to the ribs or face if the attacker is close.
- Knee strike – Target the groin for maximum impact.
- Escape techniques – If grabbed, use leverage to break free (e.g., twisting out of a wrist grip).
- Defensive Tools
- Personal alarms – Loud noise can startle and attract attention.
- Pepper spray – If legal in your area, it can provide a crucial escape window.
- Keys as a weapon – Holding them between your fingers can be useful in an emergency.
- De-escalation & Escape
- Avoid engaging – If possible, remove yourself from the situation quickly.
- Seek help – Move towards a group of people or a well-lit area.
- Use barriers – Put objects like cars or benches between you and the harasser.