Safe Steps Darwen to help people stay safe on nights out

A new community-led initiative is being introduced in Darwen to help people feel safer and more supported when enjoying a night out in the town centre.

Safe Steps Darwen will provide practical assistance, reassurance and safeguarding support during busy evenings and weekends, helping residents and visitors who may find themselves in vulnerable situations.

The initiative has been developed in partnership with Darwen Community Helpers CIC, Blackburn with Darwen Public Health, the council’s Community Safety Team and Lancashire Police.

By bringing together local volunteers, community organisations and public services, the scheme aims to reduce harm, improve wellbeing and create a safer night-time environment.

What support will Safe Steps Darwen offer?

Safe Steps volunteers will provide a visible and reassuring presence in the town centre, offering a range of practical assistance, including:

• Welfare checks and emotional support
• Safe escorts for people who need assistance
• First aid
• Access to drinking water
• Use of a phone when needed
• Signposting to specialist support services

The initiative is designed to help people who may feel vulnerable, become separated from friends or simply need some extra support during a night out.

Councillor Matt Jackson, Blackburn with Darwen Council’s Executive Member for Housing and Public Health, 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.”

Launch planned for Halloween weekend

The initiative aims to increase feelings of safety, reduce alcohol and substance-related harm, encourage early intervention and support a positive and welcoming night-time economy in Darwen.

Following months of planning, organisers are preparing to introduce the service to the wider community over Halloween weekend.

Sammy Nye, from 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.”