Deliveroo riders trained to spot female harassment

Deliveroo riders will be trained to spot signs of female harassment and drug dealing, as part of a new partnership with Neighbourhood Watch. 

The optional training programme, which has been verified by the Metropolitan Police, will see riders be educted to notice crimes such as domestic abuse, human trafficking, drug dealing and street harassment. 

The food delivery company said the idea of a partnership was developed when, earlier this year, a rider called Darren became a Neighbourhood Watch coordinator and “wanted to share his positive experience”.

It is also based on conversations with riders, including a recent focus group organised by Deliveroo with female riders.

This partnership is being launched during the annual Neighbourhood Watch Week, which this year will “focus on strengthening the neighbourly relationships built before and throughout the pandemic”. 

To mark Neighbourhood Watch Week, Deliveroo will also deliver free meals to Neighbourhood Watch volunteer Area Leads to show its “appreciation for their hard work over the past challenging year”. 

Will Shu, CEO and founder of Deliveroo, said: “At Deliveroo, we want to support the communities in which we operate and use our platform for good. We don’t just want to be seen in our communities; we want to be part of them. 

“That is why we have partnered with Neighbourhood Watch to help riders keep people safe, with a particular focus on female safety. Riders have carried out a vital role during the pandemic and are well placed to build on this experience to spot any concerns in the neighbourhoods in which they work and live.”