Liverpool staff undergo training to ramp up safety around Eurovision
Around 600 members of staff around Merseyside have taken part so far
Last updated 16th Mar 2023
Staff from organisations around Liverpool are being trained in how to spot and support victims of abuse or hate crime ahead of the Eurovision song contest in May.
The city is gearing up for tens of thousands of people to descend for Eurovision and safety has been highlighted as a top priority.
Almost 100 local businesses and organisations from around the region are getting involved in 'You're safe here' training.
The You're Safe Here scheme, was first run in 2021 by Merseyside Police and LCR Pride after a spate of hate crimes.
It’s hoped the training, which is currently free, will give advice on how to identify abuse, help those in danger and report it properly.
Aaron Stafford is from Prepped With Passion in Bootle, he also runs sessions at a local gym. Aaron told us what made him want to do the training.
He said: “In terms of going to the gym I think ther’s not many places that would openly say they are welcoming the LGBTQ community. I’m here to learn how to create a safe space.”
Venues right across the city have already received their You’re Safe Here accreditation mark which they display on windows and on posters inside the venues, which have a QR code linking to further support.
LCR Pride Foundation CEO and Co-Founder, Andi Herring, said: “Liverpool is expecting a huge influx of visitors for Eurovision in April, which will mark the start of a huge summer for the city. It’s a huge opportunity for so many businesses and it’s vitally important that we offer a safe and welcoming environment to our guests.”
Merseyside’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Emily Spurrell, said: “It is a huge honour for Liverpool to be chosen to host Eurovision on behalf of Ukraine.
“We are known for being one of the friendliest, most welcoming cities in the country and the world. By providing You’re Safe Here training for hundreds more staff and dozens more venues across the city we are determined to show our city is safe and welcoming to all and help venues across the region prepare for this fantastic event.
“The overwhelming response to previous rounds of You’re Safe Here training shows just how committed local people are to going out of their way to help others and ensuring everyone has a brilliant time when they visit our region.”
Another training session is planned at the ACC Liverpool on the 11th April.
Eurovision Song Contest coming to Liverpool
Liverpool chosen to host Eurovision 2023
Liverpool was one of seven cities shortlisted to host the competition on behalf of winners Ukraine, after it was decided they were unable to take on hosting duties due to the ongoing war. Liverpool beat Glasgow in the final two to become the host city.
Eurovision hosts revealed
In February the four hosts for the Eurovision Song Contest were announced: actress Hannah Waddingham (pictured), Alesha Dixon and Ukrainian singer Julia Sanina, alongside Eurovision favourite Graham Norton, who will commentate alongside Mel Giedoryc
UK entry confirmed
In March it was confirmed Mae Muller will represent the UK at the Eurovision song contest in Liverpool in May.
Thousands of Ukrainian refugees to get subsidised tickets
It was announced that thousands of tickets will be made available for displaced Ukrainians to attend the Eurovision Song Contest in Liverpool.