Wiltshire PCC News

13 Jul 2022

Just days left for residents to have their say on what would make them feel safer at night in Wiltshire and Swindon

Just days left for residents to have their say on what would make them feel safer at night in Wiltshire and Swindon: Safer Nights Survey

Time is running out for residents to have their say on what would make them feel safer in public spaces at night, with just days to go until the public survey closes.

The survey, launched by the Police and Crime Commissioner, in partnership with Wiltshire Police, Wiltshire Council and Swindon Borough Council will help shape the Safer Nights Charter with the aim of making public spaces safer at night for all.

Wiltshire and Swindon’s Safer Nights Charter will be inclusive of all those who use public spaces at night, for whatever reason, but will have elements focused on reducing violence against women and girls, including training and designing public spaces for safety.

Police and Crime Commissioner, Philip Wilkinson said: “There is quite a marked difference between how safe people generally feel at night compared to daytime and this survey will ensure that the Safer Nights Charter contains practical steps to make people feel safer based on the responses we receive.

“What makes people feel safe varies from person to person and in order to make sure this charter is fit for purpose we want to hear from all those who use public spaces at night, be it those who socialise in bars, pubs and clubs, or work in the late-night economy, travel at night, exercise and all the other reasons in between.”

Organisations that operate in the late-night economy, such as bars, pubs, clubs, taxis and the many others will be encouraged to voluntarily sign up to the charter with the aim of working together to make a positive, proactive change.

Detective Supt Sarah Robbins from Wiltshire Police said: “Much work has and continues to be done by us and our partners to improve the safety of the public both night and day.

“However, enjoying the night-time economy fully, without fear or concern for your safety is not only important but something which is really a right for everyone – women and men.

“I welcome this survey which will guide us all to what would work well and what could be improved so we can help to ensure Wiltshire at night is a safe, enjoyable and welcoming place to be for all.

“This is really important, and I’d encourage as many people as possible to share their views through this survey.”

The survey will close on Tuesday 19 July, to take part visit https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/KKWW539.

Contact Information

Zara-Ann Prendergast
Strategic Communications Manager
Wiltshire and Swindon OPCC
07586496070
Zara-ann.prendergast@wiltshire.police.uk