Liverpool to launch new safety charter for night-time venues
Bars, clubs, and restaurants will commit to measures against harassment
A new initiative aimed at enhancing night-time safety in Liverpool is set to launch on 11th March 2024.
The charter encourages bars, clubs, restaurants, and various venues to commit to a zero-tolerance policy on harassment, pledging to improve the safety of staff and customers.
Liverpool City Council is spearheading the project alongside partners, including Merseyside Police and Nightlife CIC, to create safer environments in venues operating between 6pm and 6am.
Participating businesses will receive free staff training, guidance on reporting harassment, and promotional materials to communicate the initiative effectively to staff and customers.
The scheme will promote the 'Ask for Angela' initiative, offering a discreet way for individuals feeling unsafe to seek assistance, whether they're on a night out, at the gym, or in a local shop.
Business Commitments
As part of the charter, businesses pledge to fulfill seven key commitments: appoint a lead champion for action and support, foster positive communication campaigns, provide clear reporting channels for staff, ensure customers know how to report misconduct, equip staff with response training, train staff to securely record incidents, and conduct regular audits to enhance venue safety.
Community Support
Liverpool's longstanding Purple Flag accreditation serves as a backdrop to the new night-time safety charter, highlighting the city's commitment to maintaining diverse leisure activities in a safe atmosphere for over 16 years.
This initiative aligns with Merseyside Police's efforts like Ask for Angela training and Operation Halo, which aim to protect vulnerable individuals and combat violence against women and girls.
Cllr Laura Robertson-Collins emphasized Liverpool's safe and welcoming environment, with the charter enhancing the city's nightlife experience for its millions of annual visitors.
Liverpool student Leia-Rose Mills shared her enthusiasm for the scheme, highlighting its potential benefits for the city's student population.
More information about the Night-Time Safety Charter can be found at the Liverpool City Council's official website.