Safe Bus now running every Friday and Saturday in December, Plymouth
Ahead of the busy festive season, Devon & Cornwall Police in Plymouth would like to remind the public to make use of the Safe Bus in the city if they’re out celebrating during the evening and late nights in December.
As well as Saturdays, the bus will now also be running every Friday in December from 10pm – 4am, Derry’s Cross. It is a safe space for anyone to access help if they need it. As well as medical care, people can treat the bus as a safe space – somewhere to go if they feel unsafe, if they need a breather from the nightlife environment or if they need to charge their phone to get home safely.
Police Sergeant Mark Williams said: “December is a very popular time of the year for many people to enjoy a merry night out. I’m so pleased that we’ve been able to deploy the bus every Friday in addition to usual Saturdays across the month.
“We know how important it is for people to feel safe and supported, especially during the late night and early hours – which is exactly what the bus and staff are there for – it’s an easy place for people to access help quickly if they need it. So please, make use of the Safe Bus. The staff are there to help and keep you safe.”
Cat MacDonald, Co-ordinator Best Bar None Plymouth, said: “The Safe Bus provides a range of vital services to support the safety and wellbeing of Christmas revellers during one of the busiest times of the year. By being available on Fridays and Saturdays throughout December, it reinforces the values of Best Bar None Plymouth and our commitment to safer socialising. With a friendly team offering first aid and assistance to anyone feeling unwell or vulnerable, the Safe Bus helps ensure everyone enjoys the best possible night out.
“Working alongside our member venues, its presence highlights a collaborative effort to create a more enjoyable and secure night out for all, building confidence in Plymouth’s vibrant night-time economy.”
Councillor Sally Haydon, Plymouth City Council Cabinet Member for Community Safety, said: “More people will be out and about during the festive period, so that means higher footfall in the city centre.
“The Safe Bus is an excellent initiative that Plymouth offers, and it is brilliant to hear that the bus will be out on Fridays and Saturdays during this time, we want people to feel safe and know that there are staff available to help should someone need it. The bus is not just somewhere where you can go if you need medical assistance, it is also a safe space, somewhere to go for support, or even to charge your phone.”
The Safe Bus was set up by Devon & Cornwall Police and a number of local partners including Plymouth City Council. The bus is staffed by a team of paramedics, security guards and nearby taxi marshalls on Raleigh Street who ensure anyone trying to get a taxi, including those from the Safe Bus, can get home safely.
For more information about what support is available if you’re on a night out and your evening doesn’t go as planned, visit: News Article - Devon & Cornwall Police