Hundreds of people have been supported by a town centre facility dedicated to keeping people safe during a night out.
The Safe Haven on King Street was launched by Wigan Council last year as part of the council’s ongoing work through the Wigan Borough Community Safety Partnership.
The initiative, which provides people access to phone chargers, advice on how to get home safely, welfare assistance, and a base for emergency service partners, has helped 704 people since its launch.
Councillor Kevin Anderson, cabinet member for police, crime and civil contingencies, said: “The Safe Haven not only represents our continued commitment in keeping the town centre’s night-time economy secure and welcoming, but also showcases the strong partnerships we have in place to ensure everyone can enjoy a safe night out.
“Wigan’s town centre’s night-time economy has Purple Flag status which means we are recognised as being a safe and vibrant evening destination, and I am pleased that the Safe Haven is one of the many initiatives that has helped us to achieve this.
“This fixed space joins our 100 other safe spaces which are located throughout the borough.”
The Safe Places scheme includes registered venues who have agreed to offer help and support if someone is anxious, scared or believes they may be at risk when out and about.
The Haven is open on Fridays from 9pm to 2am and Saturdays from 11pm to 5am, and trained safety marshals are on hand to offer help to those in time of need.
The Haven is supported by King Street Regeneration Company, a social enterprise working with local businesses to enhance King Street and boost the local economy.
Chantelle Wisby, a safety marshal, added: “The Safe Haven has made a massive difference. It is a really rewarding experience, especially when you have people coming back to thank you.”
Coun Anderson, added: “We want people to come to Wigan and have fun of course but to also feel they can have fun in a safe environment.”
“I want to thank our safety marshals and our taxi marshals for their hard work in supporting people at a time of need.”
