A Darlington service which operates to help people on nights out in the town will open its doors during the day to show people the services that it offers.
Number Forty on Skinnergate is open between 9pm and 3am every Friday and Saturday night to help anybody who feels vulnerable, unwell or has been a victim of crime. Trained security staff and volunteers are at hand to offer help to those who need it regardless of the situation.
Since opening in September, Number Forty has helped reunite lost revellers with their friends, provided first aid, helped people reach hospital, called taxis and family members, supported victims of crime and handed out free water, flip flops and ponchos.
Tomorrow afternoon (8 December), Number Forty will be open between 12.30 and 3pm for the public to see the services they provide, ask questions and meet the volunteers who run the service.
The Darlington Safer Streets partnership, which includes Darlington Borough Council and Durham Constabluary supports Number Forty's work, and is one of a number of initiatives recently launched to increase safety, particularly for women and girls, in the town centre.
Mike Renton, Darlington Council’s cabinet member for stronger communities, said: “The volunteers at Number Forty are doing an amazing job providing a brilliant service for anyone who needs help on a night out.
“The open event is a great chance for anyone who in interested to pop in, meet some of our volunteers and find out more about Number Forty. I hope lots of people will take up the opportunity to come along.”
Joy Allen, Durham Police and Crime Commissioner, said: “I am delighted at the success of Number Forty. This event is an excellent opportunity for the public and partners to meet the valued volunteers that have made this whole operation possible, along with finding out about the excellent work that is going on every weekend to keep our residents safe in our night time economy.
“Safer people is one of the main priorities for the public in our police and crime plan. We want to reassure the public and provide protection to the vulnerable members of our community. This is just one step on a long road to supporting women and girls to overcome violence on our streets.
“It is also a chance for people who are considering volunteering at the hub to understand what the role involves and if they would be willing to dedicate their time to this valuable resource, even if it’s just one night a month, to ensure that we continue the success for the safety of Darlington town centre. We will need as many volunteers as we can get now we have managed to extend the funding that has been given to the hub as part of the Safer Streets fund. We hope this extended funding opportunity will continue to make the streets across our area safer for all.”
Safer Streets is a UK-wide Government initiative that has seen County Durham and Darlington receive more than £1.5m over the last 18 months to help make the area safer through a variety of projects.
If you would like to volunteer or help Number Forty email chris.knox@darlington.gov.uk or Lucy.Hatch2@durham-pcc.gov.uk.
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