Over 1,300 night-time revellers use Plymouth's Safe Bus for support
Local initiative aids partygoers with medical care and support on nights out
Since its launch in April 2024, Plymouth's Safe Bus has welcomed over 1,300 individuals, offering crucial support for those in need during a night out.
Over half of the visitors required medical attention from on-board paramedics, resulting in an estimated reduction of over 400 calls for ambulances.
Around 500 people sought general support, including assistance in getting home, phone charging services, or simply a safe place away from the bustling nightlife.
PC Deb Hart, who helps run the service, highlighted its significance by saying, "The numbers alone show just how important and well-used this service is, helping hundreds of people every year."
Located at Derry's Cross, outside TimberVault, the Safe Bus operates every Saturday from 10pm to 4am.
It is equipped with solar panels and offers a safe space, medical services, phone charging facilities, and an on-board toilet.
Set up by Devon & Cornwall Police with support from local partners, Plymouth Citybus helped acquire the bus, with funding from the University of Plymouth, Safer Streets 4, Victim Support, and Plymouth City Council.
The service is run in collaboration with Best Bar None, the NHS, and Western Medical Services.
Cllr Sally Haydon expressed pride in the initiative, stating: "The Plymouth Safe Bus represents a strong, collaborative commitment to making our night-time environment safer for everyone."
Cat MacDonald, Co-ordinator of Best Bar None Plymouth, remarked on the bus's value: "The Safe Bus is a valuable resource for everyone visiting Plymouth’s night-time economy."
Will Price from Western Medical Services emphasised, "The Safe Bus is about more than medical care; it’s about providing a safe, visible place for people to go when they need help on a night out."