Television presenter Kirsty Gallacher has issued a powerful call for more police officers on London's streets and improved handling of violence against women and girls, following a personal assault she experienced in the capital last year. The former Sky Sports broadcaster described being attacked by a man as she walked to her car after work in central London, an incident where the perpetrator has never been identified or apprehended.
"Looking Everywhere" for Police Assistance
Gallacher recounted the traumatic event during an interview on The UK Tonight with Sarah-Jane Mee, revealing specific details about the assault. "He turned around and kicked me - really kicked me - like he would kick a football," she explained, emphasising the violent nature of the attack. What particularly disturbed her was the noticeable absence of police presence immediately following the incident.
"My biggest sadness or anger was there was not enough of a police presence. And we're in central London and I was looking everywhere, like I almost wanted to shout, 'please help me!'," Gallacher stated. The 50-year-old presenter expressed her desire for visible policing that would help women feel safer in urban environments, adding: "I would love a bigger police presence on the streets [to make women feel safe]."
Systemic Issues in Reporting Violence
Gallacher highlighted broader concerns about how society addresses violence against females, suggesting it has become somewhat normalised. "That's why women don't report these crimes because also not enough is being done about it," she asserted, pointing to systemic failures in response mechanisms. She emphasised that even minor assaults should be taken seriously by authorities when reported.
Despite praising individual officers who were "fantastically supportive" during her case, Gallacher expressed frustration that the investigation ultimately stalled. Clear CCTV footage initially gave hope that the attacker would be caught, but the case was eventually filed without resolution. The Metropolitan Police confirmed their commitment to tackling violence against women and girls, noting that the investigation remains closed but could be reopened if new evidence emerges.
Living with Tinnitus After Medical Condition
In the same interview, Gallacher also discussed her personal health journey, revealing she lives with tinnitus following treatment for a benign ear tumour. The condition, which affects approximately one in seven UK adults, has left her with almost complete hearing loss in one ear and constant auditory sensations.
"I had a low level buzzing and it's just always there," Gallacher described. "On some days, depending on what's going on, it can be really loud." She explained how tinnitus intensity fluctuates daily, requiring constant management. "It can be quite low where it's manageable. So it really is about navigating day by day - and some days it can drive you a bit mad."
Advocacy and Awareness Campaign
Now serving as an ambassador for the charity Tinnitus UK, Gallacher aims to raise awareness about a condition that "can devastate lives" of those severely affected. She noted various causes including stress, anxiety, and exposure to loud music, particularly relevant for musicians and entertainment professionals.
"It's really very sad and very emotional when you hear some stories," Gallacher remarked about fellow tinnitus sufferers. Her dual advocacy - for both improved public safety and better understanding of hearing conditions - reflects her commitment to addressing issues that significantly impact quality of life for many Britons.
