Wiltshire's bars and clubs urged to join new safety charter
Police Commissioner wants to make communities safer after dark
Bars, restaurants, clubs and other night-time economy businesses in Wiltshire are now being encouraged to sign-up to the Safety at Night Charter to take practical steps towards making communities safer after dark.
The county's Police and Crime Commissioner has developed the charter in partnership with Wiltshire Police, Wiltshire Council and Swindon Borough Council. It follows the results of a survey that revealed just 3% of people felt safe when out and about at night.
The Safety at Night Charter, which is helping to deliver Making Wiltshire Safer: Police and Crime Plan 2022-25, is not just limited to bars, pubs and restaurants – it is for any organisation, establishment or venue which operates in the evening and night-time economy including cinemas, gyms, theatres, public transport operators, sport venues and more.
Once signed-up to the charter, businesses will be supported by their local PCSO’s, safeguarding partnerships, Wiltshire Police and their local authority licensing officers.
PCC Philip Wilkinson said:
“The launch of our Safety at Night Charter is a positive affirmation that my office, and our partners, are committed to delivering safer nights for all across Wiltshire and Swindon. I would encourage any type of business or organisation that operates in the evenings to get involved."
“We want to proactively work alongside businesses to provide the training, tools and ongoing support they need to help improve the standard of night-time safety across the county. People in Wiltshire should be able to feel reassured when out and about at night, and able to safely enjoy the many great amenities our county has to offer."
“I am committed to providing a better service that meets the needs of the community to ensure these safety standards are met, which is one of the priorities set out in my Police and Crime Plan to make Wiltshire safer for those who live, work and visit here.”
By voluntarily signing the charter, businesses are agreeing to proactively tackle the issue of safety within the night-time economy by taking on the following pledges:
- RESPONSIBILITY
The safety of people in the night-time economy is everyone’s responsibility. Together, businesses are changing their culture to call out behaviours which are disrespectful and cause harm.
- CHAMPION
Appoint a ‘Champion’ for night safety who can give other staff advice and support. They will communicate with their local Neighbourhood Policing Team to network and share best practice.
- REPORT AND RESPOND
Create policies, train their staff, actively use initiatives such as Ask for Angela and other tools provided.
- SUPPORT
Create an environment where both your staff and the public feel comfortable and confident to report incidents.
- ENVIRONMENT
Conduct a review of their spaces and ensure that they are designed to promote a safer environment and reduce crime. Ensure CCTV is working properly, complete access audits of all buildings and ensure staff and security are positioned equally throughout their spaces.
Night-time venues and businesses can sign-up to the Safety at Night Charter here.