Cheshire’s Street Angels appeal for volunteers ahead of busy summer nights
Cheshire’s Street Angels are calling for more volunteers to help keep people safe on weekend nights out, with the summer season and Chester race days set to bring busier streets.
The project, led by Gary Wootten, started over two and a half years ago as part of the Safer Streets Initiative, originally focused on preventing violence against women and girls.
It has since expanded to support anyone who is vulnerable during nights out, from people who have lost their friends or run out of phone battery to those affected by alcohol or in distress.
“Our busiest time is during the summer race days,” Wootten said.
“We currently have about 30 volunteers, but we hope to double that so that everyone who needs help can get it.”
Volunteers work in teams of three or four and receive full training in first aid, mental health awareness, and night-time support.
No prior experience is required, and new members start with observation shifts to get a feel for the role before assisting directly.
Wootten said the mix of volunteers brings a wide range of skills and experiences.
“Some have personal experience with homelessness, others have teenage children or backgrounds in nursing, public health, or criminology." He said.
"We put teams together so everyone can contribute safely and effectively.”
“It’s a lot of fun, you get a lot of steps in, and you make friends while helping people when they need it most,” he added.
“We’d encourage anyone who is interested to visit streetangelschester.co.uk to find out more and get involved.”