Street Pastors deliver lorry load of support
A groundbreaking initiative to offer a 'Safe Space' to Aberdeen's late-night revellers is being hailed a positive development in meeting the challenges of community safety.
Aberdeen is to be the first city in Scotland to deploy a specially-adapted lorry to act as a safe haven for those in need following a night out in the city centre. Converted at a cost of £40,000, the Safe Space vehicle will provide care and comfort to those suffering the effects of alcohol, in distress or feeling vulnerable.
Safe Space is being deployed by the multi-denominational church-backed organisation Street Pastors. The initiative is being funded by Aberdeen BID, RS Occupational Health, Chivas Brothers, Grampian Police, Aberdeen City Council and Grampian Fire and Rescue Service.
The all-purpose vehicle is designed so the Street Pastors team is able to offer warm drinks, first aid, advice and support. The Safe Space project comes three and a half years since the Street Pastors first took to Aberdeen city centre to help combat issues related with late-night drinking. Grampian Police has praised the impact of the organisation in helping to record "significant reductions" in violent crime.
James Duce, Aberdeen Pastors' director, said: "The Safe Space is a truly exciting development, made possible by the close involvement of public and private sectors - their help and generosity has made this innovative project possible.
"The work of Street Pastors has been one essential element of the joint approach to community safety within Aberdeen city centre and the introduction of the Safe Space vehicle is the logical next step."
John Michie, chair of Aberdeen BIDS, commented: "Aberdeen city centre has one of the most vibrant and exciting economies in the country and the Safe Space vehicle is emblematic of this.
"We want Aberdeen to become synonymous with a mindset of positive, dynamic thinking and a belief that by working together, any barrier can be overcome."
