A company dedicated to improving women’s safety has received a major regional honour.
The Safe Woman Ltd, created by women’s safety campaigner and inspirational speaker Sarah Schofield, has been awarded Best New Business of the Year at the In-Cumbria Business Awards.
The recognition is particularly noteworthy as it arrives less than a year after the business officially launched. Sponsored by H&H Insurance Brokers Limited, the awards celebrated exceptional companies and leaders across the region, with The Safe Woman Ltd taking the top spot in the new business category.
The Safe Woman was founded following Sarah’s own lived experience as a crime victim. Having felt unsupported and without guidance during the aftermath, she chose to channel her trauma into a movement aimed at reshaping how women understand and practise personal safety. Winning the award marks a profound milestone for her.
“I was genuinely overwhelmed and completely lost for words – literally the first time that’s ever happened,” she said after receiving the award. “This is proof that good things can come from bad things. Winning New Business of the Year 2025 will help me elevate The Safe Woman to a wider audience and support more women across the UK and beyond. The more we talk about women’s safety, the more change we create.” Sarah is excited for the next chapter of The Safe Women, whose services are vital especially at this time of year.
“I’m excited to continue sharing The Safe Woman with the UK, I’ve just finished some exciting contracts in London and am looking to work with even more larger businesses.”
“This award means more than anyone will ever know,” she added. “To every woman who has attended a Safe Woman workshop and helped me in this journey – you know who you are, and you are all amazing.”
1. Never Walk or Run Alone in the Dark
Whether heading to the gym or going for a winter walk, avoid going out alone. Bringing a friend, joining a running group or taking a dog provides added safety. If going solo is unavoidable, someone should always be informed of the planned route and expected return time.
2. Use Free Tracking Apps for Peace of Mind
Free apps such as WalkSafe+ offer live crime updates, safe spaces and real-time tracking. WhatsApp’s “Live Location” feature also allows users to share their location for 15 minutes, 1 hour or 8 hours with a trusted contact who can monitor their journey.
3. Avoid Wearing Earbuds or Headphones in the Dark
Wearing earbuds reduces situational awareness and can prevent a person from noticing risks around them. Staying alert, keeping their head up and walking with confident body language can significantly improve personal safety.
4. Change the Name of the Phone
Updating a phone’s device name on Bluetooth helps prevent strangers from identifying or locating it in public spaces. The device should be renamed to something that does not reveal personal information.
5. Stick to Well-Lit Routes — Avoid Parks, Woodlands and Empty Spaces
Dark shortcuts may feel convenient but often eliminate witnesses and visibility. People should choose well-lit streets, busier paths and populated areas. Extra care should be taken in car parks, and individuals should avoid walking close to vans. If something feels “off”, they should trust their instincts, change direction and seek assistance.
For more information about The Safe Woman training, corporate programmes or speaking engagements, visit: https://thesafewoman.com/
