The safer Bradford Partnership, which includes Bradford Council and West Yorkshire Police, launched the Jogon Initiative in March 2024.
A national survey by Runner's World Magazine found that 60% of female runners experienced some kind of harassment, especially from men in cars.
As part of Jogon, West Yorkshire Police conducted many operations and issued tickets to people for harassing female runners.
Over 1,000 people participated in free training on how to intervene when the incident is unfolding in front of them.
The officers also attended Parkruns and spoke with local running clubs to provide information and advice.
According to West Yorkshire Police, Jogon has been “good” and “continuing to grow and develop,” and there are currently several other units considering adopting the initiative.
“We want to make it absolutely clear – it is unacceptable and unacceptable to harassing women who pip corners, scream out of car windows and start running.
“These behaviors can have a major negative impact on female runners, leading them to think about what to wear, where to go and what areas to avoid.
“Sadly, this could also lead to women avoiding sports altogether.
“We have been given many excuses when we stop people because of these kinds of unacceptable behavior, but that's easy – there are no excuses for these actions and they should stop right now.
“If you choose to act like this, expect to be challenged.”
Councillor Camran Hussein, Bradford Council's portfolio holder for neighborhood and community safety, added:
“The work being done to raise awareness and close out unacceptable behavior is well documented as examples of best practices.
“Of course there's more to do, and there's a strong foundation to build for the future.”
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