Halloween revellers protected by volunteer group

A new volunteer-led initiative aimed at making nights out safer in Darwen is set to launch in time for Halloween weekend.

Safe Steps Darwen has been created to provide welfare and safeguarding support to people in the town centre during busy evening and weekend periods, offering assistance to anyone who may feel vulnerable, become separated from friends, or require practical help while out socialising.

The project has been developed through a partnership between Darwen Community Helpers CIC, Blackburn with Darwen Council’s Public Health team, the council’s Community Safety Team and Lancashire Police.

Volunteers will provide a range of support services including welfare checks, emotional support, first aid, access to drinking water, phone use, safe escorts and signposting to specialist support agencies.

The initiative aims to improve safety in the town centre, reduce alcohol and substance-related harms, encourage early intervention and help create a welcoming night time economy in Darwen.

Councillor Matt Jackson, Blackburn with Darwen Council’s new executive member for housing and public health, said the scheme would provide a visible and reassuring presence in the town centre.

He said: “Safe Steps Darwen is about being there for people when they need support.

“Whether someone feels vulnerable, has become separated from friends or simply needs assistance, volunteers will provide a visible, reassuring presence in the town centre.

“By working closely with our partners, we’re hoping to create a stronger network of support to help people enjoy Darwen safely and confidently.”

The service is expected to begin operating over Halloween weekend, when the town centre is likely to see increased footfall as people take part in seasonal celebrations.

Sammy Nye, of Darwen Community Helpers CIC, said: “After months of planning and working with partners across the borough, it’s fantastic to see Safe Steps Darwen coming to life.

“We’re aiming to officially launch the initiative over Halloween weekend and introduce the service to the wider community.

“The support we’ve received from organisations such as Blackburn Lions Club, Lancashire Police, Public Health and local businesses has been incredible. Together, we’re creating a safer and more supportive environment for anyone enjoying a night out in Darwen.”

Safe Steps Darwen joins a growing number of community-led initiatives working to improve safety in East Lancashire’s town centres during evening and nighttime hours.

In Burnley, volunteers from Burnley Street Pastors patrol the town centre offering practical help, welfare support and reassurance to people on nights out. Street Pastors are trained volunteers who work in partnership with police, councils and other agencies to assist vulnerable individuals and help reduce anti-social behaviour.

Meanwhile, Blackburn with Darwen Street Pastors operate across the borough as part of the national Street Pastors network, providing a visible presence in local communities and helping people stay safe during the night time economy. The initiative is one of several Lancashire schemes backed by partnerships between churches, local authorities and emergency services.

Elsewhere in East Lancashire, volunteer groups such as Accrington Street Angels provide similar community safety support, with the organisation identified by Lancashire’s Police and Crime Commissioner among a number of groups helping to safeguard residents and support vulnerable people on a night out.