Street Pastor Scheme to Be Launched in Putney

Volunteers wanted to participate in pilot to make area safe at night

Street Pastors already operate in 240 locations around the UK

December 14, 2023

Positively Putney has announced that it is planning to launch a scheme to improve public safety on Friday nights in Putney.

The safe space scheme, which is set to begin in April 2024 will incorporate Street Pastors, similar to those who are already operating in Kingston.

The goal of the safe space pilot is to ensure that people of all ages and backgrounds feel safe using the area at night, whether they be a resident or a customer. It is hoped this will free up business resources, ease pressure on local police and the NHS by creating an area to suit a variety of needs to night time users.

Positively Putney wants to hear from local people who would be interested in volunteering their time. The street pastor team will consist of three groups of four each of which will work a minimum of one night a month. You will need to be able to commit to a 12-module training course which includes subjects such as counselling skills, drug awareness, knowing your community and street safety. The modules take place online on a Saturday morning from 9am till 1pm. There is only one module which is in person and will be held on the 3 February at St Mark’s, Oval.

In February 2022, Wandsworth borough undertook an audit of the town centres between 6pm and 6am through a series of night drives. During this audit it became clear that Putney has the most thriving night time economy in the borough, with patrons continuing to use the area long after most of the night time venues have closed. The town centre was notably busy until 4am, despite only one venue still being open until that time. Many young people stayed on the streets buying fast-food and continuing to socialise.

The street pastor initiative was pioneered in London in January 2003 by Rev. Les Isaac, Director of the Ascension Trust, and claims to have seen some remarkable results, including a drop in crime in areas where teams have been working. A street pastor is from the Christian community and is willing to help and engage with the most vulnerable in a non-judgemental way regardless of the situation or background. They are currently located in 240 towns around the UK. Every weekend they aim to help to diffuse aggressive situations, give a listening ear, help women, provide flip flops, blankets, water and phone chargers to those in need. They look after the streets ensuring litter and broken glass is disposed of and their presence eases tension and builds friendships.

If you would be interested in being involved in this project fill out this very short form.