Bristol to trial safe space for women on nights out
Similar schemes already exist across the country, including in Bath
A special safe space, specifically for women feeling vulnerable on nights out will be available in Bristol this week for the first time, thanks to a partnership between Avon and Somerset (AS) Police and the Bristol City Centre Business Improvement District (BID).
The pilot initiative will see a mobile unit placed by Colston Avenue near the Bristol Hippodrome from 9pm to 6am, on Friday 6th and Saturday 7th December.
The "overarching aim", we're told, is to reduce Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG)-related incidents and to provide assistance for those who may find themselves in need. It's success over the two days will be monitored, with a view to potentially making the space a permanent feature of Bristol's nightlife in the new year.
Vicky Lee, Director of Bristol City Centre BID, said: “This pilot is a critical step in understanding and assisting with the need for a safe, welcoming environment for those who may feel vulnerable at night in Bristol’s city centre.
"With the support of our community partners, we hope to make a meaningful difference, particularly in reducing incidents against women and girls.”
Detective Sergeant Emily Welch from AS Police said: “We have been collaborating with Bristol BID on this project for some time now and are thrilled to be able to launch the pilot.
"I initially had the idea after my niece went on a night out in Bristol and had to wait for hours at the bus station for the next bus to turn up while being regularly approached by men.
"After seeing similar initiatives prove successful in other big cities, we believe providing a temporary safe space for members of the public can also make a difference in our city, with its two universities and thriving nightlife.”
One place where a similar scheme already exists, is Bath.
Run by Bath's BID, the Bath Safe Bus is an award winning project which runs every Friday and Saturday night and offers medical and emotional support as well as phone charging facilities, spare clothing, sexual health and female hygiene products as well as food, tea and coffee.
It claims to have supported 298 people in its first 35 weeks, including 184 welfare incidents.
Details of Bristol's safe space are being shared with venue staff and security teams across the city's night time economy.
More information about it can be found on the Bristol City Centre BID website here.