Two thirds of young women face sexual harassment

Two thirds of girls and women aged 14 to 21 have been sexually harassed in public, according to a survey.

The poll by charity Plan International UK examined the exposure of young females to conduct that includes catcalling, groping and upskirting.

More than 1,000 girls and women were asked about their experiences in public settings such as when they are in the street, on transport, travelling to school or work, or in a park, bar or club.

A total of 66 per cent said they had experienced unwanted sexual attention or sexual or physical contact in a public place.

Where instances happened at least once a month, 38 per cent had encountered verbal harassment such as catcalling and sexual comments, while 15 per cent reported being touched or groped.