A dedicated space that provides help and support for people on a night out in Middlesbrough is helping to reduce pressure on blue light services
And a fresh reminder has been sounded this year about keeping safe ahead of the busy Christmas period.
The Safehaven service led by Middlesbrough Council operates an ‘on the ground’ medical team which patrols the town centre’s busiest streets, as well as providing a physical space for people to get help and take some time out.
As well as providing medical care, the Safehaven allows people to wait for a taxi or use phone charging facilities.
Staff can also help people get in touch with friends or family if they have lost or broken their phone or if they have no money to get home.
The Safehaven ambulance patrols are carried out every weekend by Cipher medical providers, offering assistance for minor injuries at the scene which reduces demand on local A&E services and calls to 999.
Ahead of the busy Christmas period, those heading into Middlesbrough town centre for festive get-togethers are reminded of the Safehaven location in the Bus Station.
It can be accessed between the hours of 10pm – 3.30am Fridays and 11pm – 4.30am on Saturdays. After the main doors are closed at midnight access is via the side door of the bus station on Park Street behind the former Lloyds bar.
The ’End Your Night Out Right’ campaign launched in September highlights the importance to night-time revellers of keeping themselves safe while enjoying their night out. It provides details about Middlesbrough’s Safehaven and how they can access it if they become unstuck.
Cleveland Police is also supporting the campaign and has provided vital funding to help with the delivery of positive messages across social media, town centre advertising and radio.
Information and resources have also been provided to licensed premises operators including the delivery of training to staff which is helping to support the dedicated teams working during the festive period and thereafter.
Mayor Chris Cooke, who is also Executive member for Adult Social Care and Public Health, said: “The Safehaven campaign is being supported by our partners including Cleveland Police, the brilliant Boro Angels and staff from pubs, clubs and bars in the town centre.
“The town will obviously be very busy at this time of year and we hope that everyone can enjoy the atmosphere of the festive season. Please end your night out right by getting home safely.”
The Christmas campaign has received GRIP funding from Cleveland Police in a bid to tackle serious incidents in the night-time economy.
Chief Inspector Jon Tapper from Cleveland Police’s Prevention Command said: “While Cleveland Police remains committed to tackling criminals, protecting the most vulnerable from harm is one of our key priorities. We want people to enjoy themselves safely over the festive period and Safehaven provides a dedicated place where people can access the help they need.
“We would encourage people to make sure they’re familiar with Safehaven and the facilities it provides. As always, if you see anything suspicious or if you wish to report something to us, we would urge you to call 101.”