
Episode #32
Not Safe at Work, Not Safe in Public: Why Are We Still Waiting?
Why are women still not safe at work and in public? Why does gender equality still feel so far away? Why are women still underrepresented in politics and business? And what needs to change to make the workplace genuinely inclusive? Rom talks to the amazing Helen Pankhurst and Anita Iwugo about why we’re still searching for the answers for these questions, even in 2026. Helen Pankhurst carries one of the most recognisable names in the history of women’s rights, she is the great-granddaughter of Emeline. But this conversation is less about looking backwards and more about what still needs to change. Helen talks about growing up with the Pankhurst name, the difference between a famous surname and a responsibility to continue the work, and why the fight for equality is far from finished. Anita helps companies update their workplace culture and makes sure they use AI technology safely and fairly. People know her well for her leadership roles in making workplaces more diverse, fair, and welcoming for everyone. They both talk about Centenary Action, the campaign for greater political representation, Section 106 of the Equality Act and the possibility of a gender-equal Parliament. There’s also a look at what the next generation should inherit, including the freedom to walk into a boardroom, Parliament or a bar and simply feel that they belong there. In this episode: • Women’s rights, equality and political representation from the 1920s to the 2020s • Centenary Action and the campaign for a gender-equal Parliament • Section 106 of the Equality Act • Women’s safety in drinks, hospitality and retail • Female-founded drinks businesses and access to investment • Alcohol, masculinity and power • What equality could look like for the next generation Raising the Glass brings together people shaping the drinks industry and the wider conversations around it from business and leadership to culture, inclusion and the future of drinks. Join us: https://raisingtheglass.co.uk/ LINKS https://centenaryaction.org.uk/ https://www.pankhurstmuseum.com/ Podcast production by: https://www.gingerwizard.co.uk/



