Police safe space being used '1,000 times a night'

Det Supt Gary Biddle said the Safe Space initiative was having a positive impact

A zone created to safeguard people on weekend evenings is being used 1,000 times a night, police figures revealed.

Essex Police established the "safe space" in Southend-on-Sea High Street back in July and users could ask for help or get signposted to other services.

It had since been used 23,000 times across 20 Friday and Saturday nights, the force said.

"People who have travelled through that area have told us they feel reassured, they like the presence of the safe space and they want it to continue," said Det Supt Gary Biddle.

The Safe Space is staffed by police and council officers, as well as street pastors and charity workers

The zone, staffed by ten officers between 20:00 GMT and 04:00, was implemented after a police survey found women and girls felt unsafe walking along the High Street.

However, figures showed men aged 25 and older have used it the most, with 6,880 visits since it opened. Women under 25 used it on 4,307 occasions - the fewest instances.

Officers working at the safe space have also made 14 arrests and seized five weapons.

Its success led to similar operations being launched in Colchester and Basildon.

'Vitally important'

Det Supt Biddle, of the serious violence unit, said the public response showed the initiative was having a positive impact.

“It’s vitally important we continue to be a highly visible presence," he said.

"We’re in the places where we’re needed most, we’re helping people who are vulnerable, and we’re building relationships with the people and our partners who are in those areas."