Devon & Cornwall Police News site

The Plymouth Safe Bus, which is set up to provide support to people during the late night and early hours of the morning, has helped 227 people so far this year.

The Safe Bus, which was set up by Devon & Cornwall Police and a number of local partners including Plymouth City Council, is located in Derry’s Cross every Saturday between 10pm – 4am. 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.

Police Sergeant (PS) Mark Williams, who supports the running of the Safe Bus, said: “We know how busy nightlife within Plymouth is, especially as the city is home to three universities. It’s always great to see people enjoying themselves on the weekend and we know how important it is for everyone to feel safe.

“The purpose of the bus is to create a safe space where anyone can drop by and access help if they need it. Whether someone needs to get out of the nightlife environment, feels unsafe, needs medical care, or if they simply need to charge their phone so they can get home safely – the bus and staff are there to help.” PS Williams added: “I’d like to encourage anyone who is out during the evening to visit the Safe Bus if they need help, especially as we head into September when we know that new students move into the city.”

“This is just one of the initiatives in Plymouth to keep our nightlife safe. Our police officers continue to conduct regular patrols during peak hours, both in plain clothes and in high visibility uniform, to deter crime and provide a reassurance to the public. We continue to work closely with our partners across the city to ensure that people in Plymouth can enjoy a safe night out, but if something does go wrong, we have support in place for you. As always, if you need help or want to report a crime, please do approach our officers – that’s what we’re here for.”

The current Safe Bus has been running since 2023. It provides a general safe space, medical provision, drink spiking tests and phone charging facilities. The power on the bus is charged by solar panels.

Plymouth Citybus supported the police in acquiring the bus. The partners involved in funding the initiative include University of Plymouth, Safer Streets 4, Victim Support and Plymouth City Council. Partners involved in the weekly running of the bus: Best Bar None, the NHS and Western Medical Services. 

Cat MacDonald, Co-ordinator Best Bar None Plymouth, said: “Our Safe Bus is a vital resource for the city’s nightlife, offering a secure and supportive environment for individuals who may feel vulnerable, intoxicated, or in need of medical assistance. It complements the efforts of venues that are trained in vulnerability management and accredited by Best Bar None, ensuring a cohesive approach to safety across the city.

“By providing on-the-spot medical care and a safe space for those who feel vulnerable, the Safe Bus alleviates pressure on venue staff and emergency services, allowing accredited establishments to focus on delivering a safe and enjoyable experience. This collaboration enhances the overall safety of our nighttime experience, making the city a welcoming and secure place for everyone.”

Councillor Sally Haydon, Cabinet Member for Community Safety, said: “The Safe Bus is another excellent initiative that we have available in our city to offer support, and to make people feel safer when out and about at night.

“It’s always useful to know that there are services around the city that are available to help people should they need it. The bus will have trained paramedics and professionals on board to help you should you feel you need medical assistance during your night out. It is vital that we have these services available in the city to protect our residents and people who visit Plymouth.”

An NHS spokesperson said: “The Safe Bus is an integral part of the night time economy in Plymouth, providing medical assistance, welfare support and a safe space to those who need it. It is also a vital part of the NHS, providing an alternative for people other than calling 999 and attending the Emergency Department. It is great to see such a strong collaborative approach to supporting those who enjoy the night life in Plymouth and we are incredibly proud to be a part of it."

For more information about the Safe Bus and when it will be deployed, click here.