Earlier this year, Eastbourne introduced a new initiative to enhance nighttime safety in the town. The Night Safety Marshals, a team working in collaboration with the police and other partners, has been established to ensure the well-being of individuals during the evening hours.
In just a few months, the initiative has shown promising results. The marshals have aided over 70 women and 30 men who found themselves in vulnerable situations, assisting them in reconnecting with friends and family, reaching out to the police, or safely returning home.
Moreover, the team has effectively addressed and mitigated over 15 incidents of public disorder. Their efforts have contributed to reducing crime associated with the night-time economy in the town centre, particularly on weekends.
Launched in January, the Night Safety Marshals aim to offer an additional layer of visible security and play a proactive role in identifying and addressing potential risks early on.
Operating from 8 pm to 4 am on Fridays and Saturdays, the marshals patrol key areas of the Eastbourne centre, visit night-time venues, and provide support to community members. They also collaborate with the police, Street Pastors, SIA-licensed door staff, and the Business Crime Reduction Partnership to create a safer environment for everyone during the night.
inspector Sarah Taylor, of the Eastbourne Neighbourhood Policing Team, said:
“Protecting our community from violence and crime, particularly during the night-time economy, is a key priority for police.
“Everybody has the right to enjoy a night out and Eastbourne is, and will continue to be, a safe place to do this.
“We already have a range of measures in place to support this work, including dedicated cars, targeted patrols, and close partnerships working with licensed premises to promote other safety schemes such as Ask for Angela.
“The Night Safety Marshals are a very welcome addition to our town centre and will further support our work to protect vulnerable people and catch offenders.”
“If you or someone you know are a victim of crime or need assistance on a night out, speak to a police officer, bar staff, Night Safety Marshal, or call 999 in an emergency.”
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