Leeds City Centre Safety Measures for Christmas Season

Increased safety efforts as festive crowds return to Leeds city centre

Leeds city centre is preparing for a busy festive period, with an expected rise in the number of people out at night. In response, the council has highlighted various safety initiatives aimed at reducing risks associated with increased footfall, including anti-social behaviour and crime.

Night Safe Leeds partnership

The council is collaborating with emergency services and community partners through the Night Safe Leeds scheme to enhance safety in the city centre throughout December. Key elements include:

• Street marshals: Operating every weekend from 12pm to 3am, identifiable by high-visibility orange jackets, they provide support and assistance to the public.
• Women’s Night Safe Space: Open on Friday and Saturday evenings until 3am, this space offers a safe environment for women who feel unsafe or unwell. Staff include healthcare professionals and female security personnel.
• Angels of Freedom: Located in the Freedom Quarter, these volunteers offer support and advice to LGBT+ community members most Fridays until 11pm.

Technology and community support

The WalkSafe app is promoted as a tool to plan safer journeys. It allows users to share their location with friends or family and identifies venues participating in the Ask for Angela scheme. This scheme enables individuals to discreetly request help from venue staff if they feel threatened or unsafe, with assistance including safe spaces or arranging taxis.

Advice to the public

Leeds City Council encourages people to remain vigilant during the festive season by:

• Not leaving bags unattended or open
• Avoiding placing phones on tables when not in use
• Being aware of surroundings at all times

All Night Safe Leeds services are connected to LeedsWatch, the city’s CCTV control room, allowing real-time communication and coordination.

Council statement

Councillor Asghar Khan, executive member for communities, customer service and community safety, emphasised the importance of safety during the festive period:

“Nightlife is a big part of what makes Leeds the place that it is and that is particularly true at this time of year. As more people are out and about enjoying themselves in the city centre we want to make sure that people know what help and support is available to them if they need it.

“Any form of crime is unacceptable, and everyone should be able to enjoy our city no matter what time of day or night. We want them to have fun and get home safely.

“If something doesn’t feel right there is always support around.”

Further information about the safety initiatives and support available can be found at leeds.gov.uk/nightsafe.