Nightclub door staff trained to keep women safe

Police say more than 100 people have been trained so far across Liverpool

Door staff, bar managers and taxi marshalls working across Liverpool's bars and nightclubs have been trained in how to spot the signs of violence against women and girls on a night out.

About 100 people have been trained by Merseyside Police officers in how to recognise offender behaviours, respond to incidents such as drink spiking, and preserve evidence where needed.

It is hoped the scheme will help ensure that anyone who feels vulnerable while out at night can get help quickly and discreetly, should they need it.

Det Ch Supt Helen Bennett said door staff are "our eyes and ears across our pubs and clubs" and the training was an opportunity to make people feel safe that others are watching out for them.

She was speaking at the launch of Operation Halo, a new campaign to create "safer spaces for women and young girls and anybody who may feel vulnerable".

The first phase builds on the national Ask for Angela initiative, which allows people to seek help from staff in licensed premises by using the code word "Angela".

The police training is to make staff Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) Champions, and so far about 100 people have taken part.

The second phase introduces "halo points", which are well-lit, highly-visible points across the city centre marked by distinctive green and white lighting to act as a deterrent to offenders.

They are meant to ensure those who need help can access it, as the halo points will offer direct contact with emergency services and will be linked to City Watch CCTV, offering immediate reassurance and rapid intervention.

The halo points will launch late December, police said.