I was at a cash machine on a quiet street in Newcastle city centre. I sensed someone was behind me, stood too close. I turned around and this guy started laying on thick…”You’re gorgeous…let me take you for a drink…come on, I’ll show you a good time.”

I told him to back off and then, feeling a little brave, said to him, “Do you think it’s a good idea to approach lone females, especially at cash points, and harass them? I’m not saying I’m intimidated (I was!) but another female could be??”

He then told me to f* off, got right in my face and said “You must be a f**kin’ police officer or something to speak in the way that you do – slag.”

Feeling brave again, I told him to get lost and walked away, all the while he was shouting and swearing at me.

I go through this MANY times, but this has been one of the worst incidents! Don’t get me wrong, I don’t mind the furtive glances, a smile, someone trying to catch my eye. I don’t mind a nice compliment or a business card/phone number sneaked my way……but some people don’t realise how aggressive they are and how intimidating they can be. I have had numerous experiences of men approaching me and then getting nasty and aggressive when I turn them away. I hate it.

– SD

Location: Northumberland Street, Newcastle, United Kingdom

Share your street harassment story today and help raise awareness about the problem. Find suggestions for what YOU can do about this human rights issu