Merseyside Police supports new Liverpool ‘Village Angels’ scheme

Merseyside Police are proud to support the LGBT Foundation as they launch the latest trial of their ‘Village Angels’ programme in a new area of Liverpool City Centre.

The volunteer-led night-time patrol service offers support and assistance to vulnerable people during weekend evenings, helping to keep our night-time economy safe and welcoming.

The force and the Police and Crime Commissioner, Emily Spurrell, have funded an initial eight-week trial of the initiative through the Hyper Local Policing Fund, awarded by the Home Office, which supports targeted interventions in high-priority areas, all aimed at improving public safety.

Each Saturday, the Village Angels will wear fluorescent pink tabards and patrol key locations including Mathew Street, the Cavern Quarter and Victoria Street between 9pm and 3.30am. Their role includes engaging with those in need of a friendly conversation, offering support to vulnerable individuals, and signposting people to local support services.

Working alongside Merseyside Police officers, the Village Angels will also be linked with the Citywatch CCTV control room and the Merseyside Police Force Contact Centre through Airwave radios, ensuring quick and coordinated responses whenever needed. During their shifts, Merseyside Police will provide them with access to facilities at St Anne Street Police Station for briefings and refreshments.

It is hoped that the success of this eight-week pilot will support the LGBT Foundation in securing longer-term funding from both public and private sector partners, allowing the programme to continue building on its strong reputation for positive engagement and community support.

Inspector Jack Woodward, Merseyside Police City Centre Team, said:

“We are proud to support the LGBT Foundation as they introduce this initiative in Liverpool city centre. The Village Angels are a fantastic addition to our policing response, enhancing public safety and providing meaningful support to anyone who may be vulnerable or need assistance whilst on their night out.

“One of their greatest strengths is their ability to build trust and strengthen engagement between the police and the LGBTQ+ community. Their presence will encourage anyone affected by crime, including hate crime, to come forward, report incidents, and access the support they deserve. We welcome the Village Angels as an important part of our joined-up approach to keeping people safe in the city centre.

Merseyside Police Commissioner Emily Spurrell said:

“Liverpool and Merseyside are known for being progressive, inclusive and welcoming places where everyone should feel safe to enjoy our fantastic nighttime economy. The launch of the Village Angels pilot is another great example of how our region comes together to look after one another.

“This initiative will provide a visible, reassuring presence on our streets and offer compassion and practical help to anyone who may be vulnerable. 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, and I look forward to seeing what the future holds, beyond the pilot, following a full review.

“This scheme reflects the very best of Merseyside: a place where we celebrate diversity, stand together against hate and work collaboratively to keep our city centre safe for all.”

Gareth Watson, Lead & Community Safer Manager at LGBT Foundation, said:

“We’re excited to be bringing the Village Angels to Liverpool, helping make sure that we’re there for anyone who needs a bit of help on a night out.

“Whether it’s someone who needs first aid, someone to talk to, or just a little help getting home we’re going to be on hand to make sure everyone has a safe night! We look forward to working in partnership with Merseyside Police to help ensure safety for our community. ”

John Hughes, Chair of Liverpool Pubwatch and the CEO of Liverpool Nightlife CIC, said:

“It’s fantastic to see the new Village Angels initiative launching in the city centre. Having dedicated volunteers on hand to support anyone who may be vulnerable is not only helpful for those individuals, but also for our bars and clubs, who benefit from the added resource in helping keep their customers safe.

“We’re also pleased to share that volunteers will be equipped with a dedicated BID radio, enabling them to be quickly directed to the most urgent situations. This is a great example of partnership working in action between the LGBT Foundation, Merseyside Police, Liverpool City Council, and Liverpool BID Company.”

Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer Angel can contact: Gareth Watson, Lead & Community Safety Manager, LGBT Foundation: gareth.watson@lgbt.foundation

Find out more on the Merseyside Police website.

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