Southampton Launches New Night-Time Support Service for City Centre
Southampton City Council and local partners have launched a new night-time support service aimed at keeping people safe in the city centre.
A team of volunteers will operate from a multi-purpose bus parked outside The Giddy Bridge on London Road between midnight and 4am on key Friday and Saturday nights leading up to Christmas. The bus, designated as a Safe Place, will offer a temporary refuge for anyone who feels unsafe, a pickup point for taxis, friends or family, and phone charging facilities.
The launch comes just in time for freshers’ fortnight, welcoming new students to the city’s universities.
The initiative is part of Operation Defender, a multi-agency effort that brings together Southampton City Council, Hampshire Constabulary, the University of Southampton, Solent University, SCAS, Street Pastors, CityWatch, GO! Security, Synergy Security, and Miracle Street, which owns and runs the bus.
Councillor Josh Allen, Cabinet Member for Communities & Safer City, said:
“I’m delighted that this new night-time service has been launched as we welcome new students to the city. I would like to thank all our partners for helping us to make this project a reality. As a council, we are committed to creating a city of opportunity for all, and our students are part of that. This new bus will provide people with a safe place while they’re out for the night. It will also reassure families that their sons and daughters can enjoy Southampton’s night life in safety.”
Jade McCauley-Deehan, Operations Manager at GO! Southampton, added:
“GO! Southampton see this resource as an extra piece of the puzzle that builds a brilliant night-time economy for all. Initiatives like this not only provide reassurance to students, residents and visitors, but helps our businesses to thrive after dark in a safe, vibrant and welcoming city. This designated space will be so valuable for those that need welfare support and a great asset in supporting Southampton’s Purple Flag accreditation.”
Professor Cathy Barnes, Pro Vice-Chancellor at Southampton Solent University, said:
“Student safety is a top priority at Southampton Solent University and, by working in partnership, we can use creative initiatives such as this to enhance safety in our city.”
The new service also helps maintain Southampton’s Purple Flag accreditation, a national recognition for cities that provide a safe and well-managed night-time economy.