A new campaign to keep the region’s streets safe over the dark winter nights was launched yesterday (Dec 1) by Merseyside Police.
The initiative is part of a national Winter in Action campaign supported by the government, which aims to reduce crime and improve public safety on the streets.
It comes as the latest report of the Angiolini Inquiry, which was established following the murder of Sarah Everard in 2021 by an off-duty Metropolitan Police Officer, called for “urgent action” to protect women in public spaces.
The second report, published today, states that police forces nationally need to do more to prevent sexually-motivated crimes against women in public spaces.
Chair Lady Elish Angiolini said: “While measures such as improved lighting and safety advice are valuable, there is an urgent need to refocus on preventing predators from offending and stopping perpetrators from reoffending.” She stressed that this report should mark a turning point and the investment to protect women is needed.
Despite these national concerns, Merseyside Police were praised for its proactive approach to tackling Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG). The force’s Winter of Action campaign launched on December 1st and builds on the success of the Safer Streets initiative, which Merseyside Police were specifically commended for in the report. It saw patrol and community engagement reduce antisocial behaviour and increase public safety in Liverpool.
Merseyside’s Police and Crime Commissioner Emily Spurrell said: “Together with Merseyside Police, local councils, and our community partners, we will deliver targeted patrols, prevention measures, and youth diversion activities, all designed to keep our town centres safe and vibrant. This is about standing alongside our communities – listening to local voices, supporting businesses, and making sure everyone can enjoy the festive season feeling safe and supported.”
The Winter in Action crackdown nationwide will run until January 31st, 2026. It includes major policing push to tackle crime, reassure communities, and make town centres’ streets safe.
Chief Inspector David Uren is leading the campaign in Liverpool and said seasonal crimes – like, cyber-crime, retail crime, burglary and drunk driving – remains a priority, but this year Merseyside police are going further this year.
He said: “It’s absolutely standard at this time of year for us to be taking focused, targeted actions to ensure our town centres are safe for those enjoying the festive season. We always dedicate extra resources at this time of year to those areas, to try and prevent it impacting our communities. What’s different this year is what we’re committing to beyond that. In-line with forces nationally, we’re looking past Christmas to a full Winter of Action.”
Knife-crime, Violence Against Women and Girls, Antisocial Behaviour, and illegal off-road bikes and robbery will all be focused on with further patrols and enforcement.
Operation Limit, which includes officers conducting drug swipes and breathalyse tests on road users, will continue running, and major events will have armed police, keeping people enjoying Christmas safe.
Featured image (c) Chloe Griffiths, Press Secretary to the Merseyside PCC
