Cardiff University football player and journalism student, Elliott Peeters-Vanstone, who was involved in team captain’s Ben Marett’s initiative last week, which involved walking girls home, whom did not feel safe to do so alone, says that the initiative, “doesn’t even scratch the surface in terms of impact!”.
Ever since the disappearance of Sarah Everard in London, women’s safety has become a sharp focus across the country. Especially when on the 24th April, an online hoax which suggested girls would be put in specific danger meaning girls were implored not to walk home alone.
On a day where girls across the country feared to walk anywhere alone, the Cardiff University football team, led by captain, Ben Marett, offered their services to any girl who would like to be accompanied home.
Peeters-Vanstone, who was involved in the scheme, said: “The boys thought a lot about how to make sure people were safe and comfortable with us, our red tracksuit tops were mentioned on our post so everyone knew who we were and Ben also sent photos of us to anybody in need of our help so they knew who to look for and had proof etc. We also split into pairs and threes to make sure nobody was on their own as well”.
The players ran a text-help service, which allowed girls to text in if they would feel safer having someone to walk home with. Over 30 girls took advantage of the scheme and all made it home safely and in good spirits.
Elliot also explained how all the boys were really behind Marett’s idea and were all keen to help out.
“I think it’s great exposure for such important issues, I think ultimately this story goes far beyond our football club and really brings to light what anybody can do if they put their mind to it, we are just grateful for all the support we have had and hope that more people do the same”.
And when asked if he and the rest of the team would like to see others looking to help out and see similar schemes come about in the future, Elliot replied:
“It would be absolutely great to see others involved. We’ve barely touched the surface of these issues and support from others and alternative initiatives are vital in making a real sustainable change”.
Ben, Elliot and the rest of the team hope this will make girls feel safer walking home alone also would like to challenge the perception around “lad culture”.
“I think it’s a great story for us to be a part of and a real honour to be perceived that way. But issues like toxic masculinity and macho lad culture are still massive issues amongst men and Uni students especially and were just glad we can be involved in the right side of the conversation”.
Ben and the team’s vice president, Jared Evitts, have also been working to encourage men to talk about mental health throughout the Covid pandemic.
Teammate Elliot believes: “ultimately this story goes far beyond our football club and really brings to light what anybody can do if they put their mind to it, we are just grateful for all the support we have had and hope that more people do the same”.
After such a positive response to the scheme, Peeters-Vanstone and the rest of the squad are focused on their football but are still looking to help in any way they can.
“We will be continuing to spread the message and are open to anyone if they have any ideas of how we could help out”.
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