Leys Pools and Leisure Centre has launched a free after-dark walking club in support of This Girl Can’s (TGC) Let’s Lift the Curfew campaign, an initiative encouraging women to remain active throughout the darker winter months.
The nationwide campaign follows research published by TGC in 2024, which found that 72% of women change their outdoor activity routines during winter.
The study highlighted how shorter days and reduced visibility influence behaviour: around one in four (24%) choose well-lit routes, 23% avoid certain areas, and 20% regularly look over their shoulder to check they are not being followed when exercising after dark. The findings underline the barriers many women face in feeling safe while keeping active during winter evenings.
In response, Leys Pools and Leisure Centre has introduced a weekly walking club designed to offer a safe, supportive, and sociable environment. Sessions run every Wednesday from 5.30pm to 6.30pm, led by a member of the centre’s fitness team. Participants are provided with high-visibility clothing, ensuring they remain easily seen during the hour-long route.
Brian Taylor, Chair of More Leisure Community Trust, which operates the centre in partnership with Serco Leisure, said:
“It’s vital that everyone has the opportunity to look after their health and wellbeing all year round. Staying active, connecting with others and enjoying the outdoors are key to feeling good, no matter the season.
To support this important campaign, we’ve launched our free to attend walking club, held every Wednesday from 5.30pm to 6.30pm. Each session will be guided by one of our fitness team, with high-vis clothing provided to ensure you’re safe and supported during the session.
While the sessions are designed especially to encourage more women to stay active after dark, everyone is welcome to join us and make their wellbeing a priority.”
Councillor Chewe Munkonge, Cabinet Member for a Healthy, Fairer Oxford, welcomed the initiative, saying:
“It is great that Leys Pool is supporting the Let’s Lift the Curfew campaign by offering a free walking club. Keeping active is important for both your physical and mental health, especially during the darker winter months. I encourage anyone who is interested to take part.”
The sessions are free and open to everyone—not just current members of Leys Pools & Leisure Centre. To register, call 0330 109 8773 or complete the online contact form.
More Leisure Community Trust, a not-for-profit organisation partnered with Serco Leisure, manages five facilities on behalf of Oxford City Council. The Trust aims to inspire communities to adopt healthier, more active lifestyles year-round.
