Bournemouth Seeks Volunteers for Evening Safety Patrols

Recruitment is underway for volunteers in Bournemouth to support individuals who become vulnerable or require assistance during evening outings. These Community Guardianship Volunteers will conduct patrols with law enforcement and other local groups on Friday and Saturday nights. As part of the Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole (BCP) Community Safety Partnership, the volunteers’ duties will encompass offering water, foil blankets for warmth, and help with safe travel home. Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) David Sidwick stated that the initiative is expected to “strengthen the community”. The patrols are scheduled to occur in the areas of Lansdowne, Horseshoe Common, and Bournemouth Square from 20:00 to 00:00. This program will operate collaboratively with existing BCP Community Safety initiatives, including BCP Unity Promise, The Safe Places Scheme, and the Safe Bus. Furthermore, it will complement the efforts of the Bournemouth Town Pastors, a committed volunteer group that has been assisting individuals in need on Saturday evenings since September 2017. Kieron Wilson, BCP Council’s portfolio holder for housing and regulatory services, commented that the contributions of volunteers would be “greatly welcomed”. He stated: “Working with our partners, we want to enable people to contribute to the local community, providing reassurance and comfort to individuals who may find themselves in distress or in need of help.” Dorset Police will manage the recruitment process, vet applicants, and supply both training and necessary equipment. Mr. Sidwick, whose department has co-funded this project, affirmed that volunteers will be “comprehensively trained”. He added: “Keeping people safe is a shared priority and this initiative is yet another example of how partners are working together to ensure people not only stay safe but feel safe when they are out and about enjoying what Bournemouth has to offer.”