Northampton Guardian volunteers share safety advice for festive nights out
Volunteers will be in the town centre every Friday, Saturday, and major holiday nights
A volunteer group in Northampton is reminding anyone heading on a night out in the town over the festive period to prioritise safety.
Northampton Guardians operate in the town centre every Friday and Saturday night, providing assistance, guidance, and support to those who might feel vulnerable or distressed.
Its team will also be out in full force during key holiday nights to ensure revellers can enjoy their celebrations safely - you'll next spot them on New Year's Eve.
Gill Goodship volunteers with the group, and says it's really important to look after yourself and others on nights out.
She has these tips: "Know how you're planning to get home and keep an extra bit of cash on you, so you have an emergency taxi or bus fare should you need it....
"Make sure you're staying hydrated and have eaten - and make sure you stick with your friends."
In the chilly, winter conditions, Gill also says it's worth planning your outfit sensibly and bringing a coat: "Dress for the conditions and make sure you wear sensible shoes. "We do offer flip flops - whilst they're not ideal in the winter, they might well be better than heels that are causing blisters or pain!"
This comes as Northamptonshire Police have also recently issued safety advice, warning people to be aware of, and take precautions against, spiking on a night out.
In a social media post, the force said 'spiking can happen to anyone' and urged people to be vigilant, taking steps like:
•Keeping your drinks close to you and never leaving them unattended
•Buying and pouring your own drinks
•Looking out for your friends and their drinks