New night safe officers to patrol York City Centre

York BID has launched a new programme to help keep people safe

Author: Kathy GreenPublished 25th Jul 2025

Extra patrols are starting in York tonight to help keep people safe.

Two uniformed Night Safe Officers will patrol York’s streets every Friday and Saturday night from 8pm to 2am. Their role is to prevent anti-social behaviour, reduce noise issues, and step in early to de-escalate potential problems, while also serving as a key link between the public, businesses, door staff, and emergency services.

The initiative is funded by the York & North Yorkshire Combined Authority Policing, Fire and Crime Directorate.

Carl Alsop, Operations Manager at York BID, said:

“We’re thrilled to launch the Night Safe Officers programme as part of our ongoing commitment to a safer and more enjoyable York. It’s a fantastic way to support the city’s Purple Flag status and provide that extra level of care for York's thriving nighttime economy.”

York and North Yorkshire’s Deputy Mayor for Policing, Fire and Crime, Jo Coles, also welcomed the project, highlighting its role in delivering on the Mayor’s vision for safer communities.

“Everyone has the right to be safe and feel safe when visiting York and North Yorkshire... Our £14,473 investment in the Night Marshalls project will help establish a visible, reassuring presence for people enjoying York’s amazing nightlife”.

The new Night Safe Officers will join York BID’s existing Riverside and Taxi Marshal programmes, which have already contributed over 1,700 hours of support to the city centre. Together, the programmes aim to enhance public safety, reduce strain on emergency services, and help ensure residents, businesses, and visitors enjoy all York has to offer — day and night.

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