I’ve previously written about the launch of the City Safe Bus, which launched this winter in the heart of Bishopsgate, to offer support to those in need during the festive season.
As a Board Member of the City of London Police Authority, I spoken out for a number of years about the growing night time economy, which can attract some anti-social behaviour and expose vulnerabilities. That’s why we launched the Safety Hub at St Botolph Without Church Hall with the EC BID a few years ago. However, the location just wasn’t prominent enough, in my opinion, so the City Safe Bus being right outside McDonald at Liverpool street Station, next to the taxi rank seems like the perfect muster point for people in need of help.
This week, I visited the police and medical teams offering support on the ground and spoke to passers-by about the scheme. Over this past weekend 170 people were supported, there were 9 medical interventions and a criminal intelligence submission from a member of the public.
It is great to see, first-hand, how visible, approachable policing is having a real impact in our community outside the UK’s busiest station. People stopped-by to seek help, get reassurance, or simply chat with City Police officers. I met two women who had seem someone elsewhere who they thought needed help and wanted to report it and another lady just came and collected water for a woman asleep on a bench.
Since its launch, the bus has provided a safe space, especially for vulnerable individuals, including women and girls, during busy evening hours. Visitors can access directions, phone charging, medical assistance, and crime-prevention advice. There is bottles of water and snacks for those who may need to take a moment to sober up before the onward journey home, which can be supported by the Taxi Marshalls at Liverpool Street.
This initiative is a partnership between the City of London Police, Eastern City BID and Aldgate Connect BIDs, combining policing and local business leadership to make the night-time economy safer and more welcoming over the celebratory festive season.
Staffed by officers, a trained medic, and volunteers, the bus is a highly visible, approachable presence that builds trust, prevents harm, and supports the Government’s Safer Streets mission.
If you’d like to chat more about community safety in the Square Mile, don’t hesitate to reach out.
