The City of London Police, in partnership with the Eastern City and Aldgate Connect Business Improvement Districts, has launched the City Safe Bus – the first initiative of its kind in the Square Mile.

The City Safe Bus is a converted former ambulance and  will be situated next to the taxi rank outside Liverpool Street Station – the busiest rail station in the United Kingdom.

The mobile welfare hub  will operate throughout the year on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings and be staffed by two uniformed City of London Police Officers and one trained medic. It will also be used to support major public events in the City, such as the Lord Mayor’s Show, New Year’s Eve and the London Marathon.

Volunteers from other organisations including the Samaritans and specialist NHS mental health nurses will also support on an ad hoc basis.

The City Safe Bus, forms part of the City of London Police’s fleet, and staff attached will:

• Provide support for vulnerable individuals during the night-time economy
• Through early intervention reduce demand on emergency services
• Offer public reassurance, safeguarding and welfare
• Maintain a calm, safe, and welcoming environment for all

Henry Johnstone, Chief Operating Officer for the Eastern City, said:

“Supporting our thriving nighttime economy and ensuring this part of the Square Mile is as welcoming, secure, safe and accommodating as possible is a top priority for the Business Improvement Districts and the City of London Police.  This joint initiative, sponsored by the two BIDs, is a first here and I am sure will prove a reassuring presence to people working and visiting the area.

“If you’re lost or can’t get home, require medical attention, are out of charge on your phone but need to contact a friend, or simply need somebody to talk to then please do come to the City Safe Bus for help.”

Inspector Ross Morton, licencing Manager for the City of London Police said:

“I am incredibly proud to be part of this fantastic initiative. The launch of the City Safe Bus is a critical asset for improving safety and the feeling of safety in the Night Time Economy. This is not just a bus, but a vehicle for change, allowing us to bring partnerships together and create a safe and welcoming environment, accessible by all”.

The City Safe Bus is the latest addition to a raft of local projects designed to keep the public safe, particularly in the evenings and at night – these include the BIDs’ funding of two patrolling cycle medics from St John Ambulance and taxi marshals at Liverpool Street Station (the latter delivered in partnership with Our Safer City).