PCC asks people to share how safe they feel going out at night
The last Safer Nights Survey took place over three years ago
The Police and Crime Commissioner for Wiltshire and Swindon is urging people to share their views on what would make them feel more comfortable after dark.
It is as the OPCC has launched its second Safer Nights Survey to determine which schemes could help increase feelings of safety among residents.
Using the results of the first survey in June 2022, the OPCC and Wiltshire Police created the Safer Nights Charter in partnership with Swindon Borough Council and Wiltshire Council.
Philip Wilkinson, Police and Crime Commissioner for Wiltshire and Swindon, said: “Everyone deserves to feel safe when they’re out at night—whether heading home from work, meeting friends, or enjoying local nightlife.
“This second Safer Nights Survey reflects our continued commitment to listening to our communities and taking meaningful action. By working together, we can build a safer, more vibrant night-time economy where people feel confident and protected.
“I’m urging residents to take part and help shape the future of nighttime safety across our region.”
Following the first Safer Nights Survey, 165 businesses from across the county signed up to the Safer Nights Charter, including pubs, bars, nightclubs and restaurants, community and fitness organisations, transportation services and event venues.
In doing so, they pledged to call out disrespectful behaviour, appoint a ‘Champion’ for night safety who can support other staff and communicates with local Neighbourhood Policing Teams as well as create policies and ensure staff training.
They also agreed to implement strategies such as Ask for Angela and make sure that CCTV is working properly and that sufficient security staff is present.
Councillor Jim Grant, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities and Partnerships, said: “The 2024 Swindon Resident Survey made it clear that feeling safe after dark is a top priority for our community.
“The Safer Nights survey gives local residents a vital opportunity to share their experiences and help shape how we address crime and anti-social behaviour. It’s part of our ongoing commitment to working collaboratively with partners and residents to build a safer Swindon for all.”
Cllr Ian Thorn, Leader of Wiltshire Council, added: “Listening to the community is a key priority for us and the Community Safety Partnership. This survey will provide valuable insight and feedback and I encourage people to take the time to contribute.
“We have already drawn on the feedback shared by the OPCC to think about how we deliver services that make people feel safe at night through consultations across our council services ranging from our communities’ teams, Anti-Social Behaviour Reduction Officers, Licencing and more.
“This shared commitment ensures we work together effectively to make the people of Wiltshire safer and feel safe.”
Before the second Safer Nights Survey’s launch, young people attending Fresher's Fairs across Wiltshire already had the chance to share their views.
Now, the survey is open to all Wiltshire and Swindon and residents for the next four weeks.