New Halo Points have been introduced across Liverpool city centre to support safety in the night-time economy. The scheme aims to help tackle violence against women and girls through visible safe spaces and rapid assistance.
Liverpool has introduced a series of 'Operation Halo' help points throughout its bustling city center to enhance safety during nighttime hours. These locations are designed to provide a secure space for anyone feeling vulnerable, allowing them to seek reassurance, contact emergency services, and receive rapid support. Each help point is equipped with direct connections to the city's CCTV monitoring room and provides a link to local police, ensuring that those in need can be assisted promptly. John Hughes, representing Liverpool Nightlife CIC, explained that these stations are intended to be a resource for anyone in the city who feels unsafe.
If someone feels vulnerable, they can press a button to activate the help point, which triggers a light and initiates a connection to the 24-hour CCTV control room. Staff are then able to speak directly to the individual until someone can arrive to help. The initiative represents a collaboration across the city, involving private businesses, bars, and nightlife staff who have been trained to provide support. Laura Robertson-Collins of Liverpool City Council noted that the city has maintained purple flag status for 16 consecutive years, underscoring its commitment to a safe and vibrant nightlife.
This project builds upon existing efforts by violence-against-women-and-girls champions who are already embedded in venues across Liverpool. Frank Stevens, a constable with Merseyside Police, highlighted the extensive training provided to 178 door supervisors, who are now trained as 'Halo Champions.' These individuals are equipped to identify predatory behavior, recognize the signs of vulnerability, and understand how to respond appropriately. The help points are funded through the Hyper-Local Policing Fund, which is awarded by the Home Office and secured by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Merseyside and Merseyside Police.
Five of these units are located around the Concert Square area, with four additional units installed in the Matthew Street area, including some specifically focused on supporting the LGBTQ+ community. Stevens emphasized that while the program is titled with a focus on violence against women and girls, the trained champions will provide the same level of support to anyone who is vulnerable and in need. The initiative marks a significant step forward in improving public safety, and officials noted that they remain committed to tackling violence and ensuring that everyone can enjoy Liverpool's nighttime economy safely.
Hughes reminded the public that these points are serious safety resources, monitored by CCTV, and encouraged citizens to use them appropriately to ensure that help remains available for those truly in need.
