Whilst many of us were tucked up in bed on what was a freezing cold Saturday night, a group of volunteer ‘angels took to the streets in pink hi-vis vests, providing support and guidance to those enjoying Liverpool’s City Centre nightlife.
Every Saturday until the end of March, come rain or shine, the ‘Village Angels’ led by the LGBT Foundation are on hand to provide practical and welfare support to vulnerable people on nights out in the city centre.
Following 15 years of success in Manchester, the initiative was launched in Liverpool two weeks ago, with the Angels patrolling several key areas, including Matthew Street, the Cavern Quarter and Victoria Street, as part of the eight-week trial.
Gareth Watson, Community Safety Coordinator for the LGBT Foundation, said: “It’s about getting people home safe, but that can be such a wide variety of things.”
Support available includes providing directions, offering friendly guidance, basic first aid assistance and mental health support.
Funding was secured for the trial by Merseyside Police and Crime Commissioner Emily Spurrell, and Merseyside Police, who have now launched a partnership with the LGBT Foundation.
Having the ‘Angels’ on hand for welfare issues has helped to reduce some of the pressure on emergency services, leaving them available to handle more serious incidents.
Whilst the initiative is for anyone who needs it, Mr Watson reflected on the role which the ‘Angels’ play in bridging the gap between the police and LGBT community.
He said: “I suppose it’s probably a little bit easier to talk to us than it is the police, because that can be quite intimidating… just because of all of the histories and complexities of everything that comes with that.”
Merseyside Police and Crime Commissioner Emily Spurrell said: “By working closely with Merseyside Police, Citywatch and local partners, the Angels will play an important role in strengthening trust and ensuring people of all backgrounds, including our LGBTQ+ communities, feel supported and protected.
“I look forward to seeing what the future holds, beyond the pilot, following a full review.”
Whilst there is currently a group of nine volunteers in Liverpool, there are hopes for this initiative to expand and develop with more funding after the trial ends, with the potential for patrols on both Friday and Saturday evenings.
To volunteer to be a Village Angel, contact [email protected]
