St Helens Launches "Safe Nights, Great Places" Campaign to Highlight Safety, Community and a Thriving Night-Time Economy

Backed by funding from the Merseyside Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC), the campaign unites several powerful safety initiatives under one clear, positive goal: to remind, reassure, and inform residents about the vibrant nightlife that's already in place in the town centre and in other parts of the borough - and to spotlight the incredible work local partners and venues are doing every day to make sure you can enjoy it safely.

The campaign features photos of the people and places that make St Helens town centre a safe and great place to visit.

The council and local businesses work continuously in partnership with the police to keep everyone feeling safe in the town centre, with a recent partnership scheme focusing on the safety of women and girls.

The scheme included improvements to street lighting, a grant programme for installation of CCTV in taxis, and a 'safe home' initiative to ensure that vulnerable women can access a taxi home safely.

Local venues have stepped up too, showing what community looks like - from extra training for venue staff to safer spaces, taxi marshals, PubWatch, Ask Angela, licensed taxis, a public assistance point - all making sure your night is as good as it is safe.

There's also the unseen but tireless work of the council's licensing team, the visible presence of Merseyside Police, the strategic oversight of the Night-Time Economy Forum and the Safer St Helens Community Safety Partnership, as well as the recently introduced Public Space Protection Order (PSPO).

Councillor Trisha Long, St Helens Borough Council's Cabinet Member for Stronger Communities, said:

"Our town centre is packed with brilliant pubs, restaurants, bars, entertainment venues and late-night spots - and we're proud to say that St Helens achieved and retained the national Purple Flag award for being a safe, inclusive, and well-managed night-time destination.

"That recognition doesn't happen by accident. It's the result of a coordinated effort across local businesses, venue staff, taxi marshals, Pubwatch, first aiders, the Night-Time Economy Forum, and community groups all working together behind the scenes to make your night out smooth, fun, and welcoming.

"Your next great night out is still here while the town centre undergoes dramatic and exciting transformation - and it's never been safer and more supported!

"So whether you're after a relaxed meal, a fun evening with friends or family, or a big night of live entertainment, we invite you to rediscover St Helens town centre and enjoy all the great places on offer."

While this campaign is focused on St Helens Town Centre, many of the campaign materials can be used in night-time venues in other parts of the borough.

Merseyside Police and Crime Commissioner Emily Spurrell said: 

"We all want our town centres to be vibrant, welcoming places where businesses thrive and people feel safe to shop, socialise and enjoy themselves. That's why I'm proud to support St Helens Borough Council's Safe Nights, Great Places campaign, a fantastic initiative that complements our Safer Streets Summer campaign, helping to tackle the issues that matter most to local people.

"By working closely with Merseyside Police, the council and community partners, we're stepping up our efforts to make sure everyone can enjoy the town centre safely, especially during the busy summer months.

"The town centre's Purple Flag status is a clear sign of the dedication shown by all those who work tirelessly to keep St Helens' night-time economy safe, inclusive and thriving. From increased patrols and targeted enforcement to community engagement and visible reassurance, we're seeing real results. I have no doubt that these combined efforts are making a real difference and helping to ensure St Helens remains a brilliant place to spend a night out."

For more information, to plan your night, or to explore the venues taking part, visit www.sthelens.gov.uk/safenights

If you'd like to learn more about the Safe Nights, Great Places campaign or if you are a venue and would like to participate in the campaign, please contact Lorraine Simpson at lorrainesimpson@sthelens.go.uk.