Cleveland’s Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Matt Storey went out on a shift with the newly recruited Stockton Street Angels to see how they help vulnerable people at night.
Matt was on patrol with a team of the hi-viz volunteers who aim to safeguard those who are out enjoying a night out and paid tribute to their work.
The initiative has been funded by a £6,000 grant from the Cleveland Unit for the Reduction of Violence (CURV) as part of their work to develop a long-term multi-agency approach to tackle serious violence.
A further £6,000 of match funding was provided by Stockton Business Improvement District (BID).
The PCC joined the group of Street Angels led by Stockton BID manager Jason Maxwell, as they departed District House at 9pm on Saturday for a patrol around the high street, pubs and precincts.
During the shift the group helped people into taxis, handed out bottles of water and chattered to those who seemed a little unsteady on their feet.
The team who are also First Aid trained, were ready to offer a listening ear or company to anyone until the early hours.
Praising the work of the Street Angels, Matt said: “By putting themselves out on the streets, I think they’re incredibly brave, kind and selfless.
“Not only are they giving up their own time at night; they are putting themselves into unknown situations which can’t be an easy feat.
“They are out purely to offer comfort to people in destress and make people feel safe and secure, but they do need more recruits, and I would urge anyone with that same selfless motivation to come forward and get in touch with the Stockton Street Angels.”
Councillor Norma Stephenson, Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Access, Communities and Community Safety, added: “Our town centres across the Borough are popular spots during the day and on a night-time, so it was a pleasure to join the Street Angels and view their selfless volunteering work in action to help ensure everyone has a safe night out.
“Their presence and extra reassurance means people can relax and enjoy their evening. Keep up the good work, everyone!”
For more information on how to apply to become a Stockton Street Angel, visit: www.stocktonvolunteers.co.uk