The Safe Space, located at leading leisure destination The Arcadian Centre, is designed to help those who feel unwell or need assistance. Support is on hand for those who become detached from their group of friends, or if they need a taxi home. The facility is supported by a dedicated team from St John Ambulance.
Since it was set up in June 2019 the PCC has invested over £18,000 into the project. This year the PCC has committed £10,000 to keep the Safe Space running in the Arcadian Centre, this money will also be used to expand the scheme to cover Broad Street once lockdown eases.
Since the initiative, funded by West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner and Southside Business Improvement District, was launched crime in Southside has fallen, as have incidents of anti-social behaviour.
As well as reducing crime and anti-social behaviour the Safe Space has also reduced the number of people going to A&E.
Safe Space volunteers have helped over 800 people and prevented more than 500 ambulance call outs in the first 6 months. As well as giving immediate lifesaving treatment to 7 people who had taken a dangerous drug cocktail.
St John Ambulance volunteers run the Safe Space medical facility every Friday and Saturday between midnight and 5:30am. St John’s crews dealt with a range of casualties, most were intoxicated, however they also dealt with a number of assaults, drug use and helping those suffering with mental health problems.
As well as helping people in the Night Time Economy, the Safe Space has also offered support and medical assistance to homeless people and assisted with Naloxone for drug users who have overdosed.
Police and Crime Commissioner David Jamieson said: “The Safe Space has been a real success and I am delighted that we will continue to help with funding it as well as expanding it to cover Broad Street.
“Birmingham has a thriving night life which allows thousands of people to socialise, party and enjoy themselves. However, we know that sometimes people need some support and help when things don’t go to plan.
“This facility has proven its success in helping those in need as well as reducing crime.
“Since it has been in operation the Safe Space has reduced crime as well as preventing many costly trips to hospital and even prevented the loss of someone’s life. It is protecting people from harm and saving money on the cost of ambulance and police callouts.”
Jo Kinsella, The Arcadian Centre manager and Vice Chair of Southside BID, said: “Since its introduction the Safe Space has played a significant part in helping those in need and preventing crime and anti-social behaviour.
“Whilst it has been in operation the Safe Space has helped over 800 vulnerable people and kept them away from the possibility of harm.
“I am pleased that the project is expanding to Broad Street as it has had made a real difference In Southside.”
Eugene Colins from St John Ambulance said: “Our team of highly skilled volunteers is on hand at the Safe Space to help anyone who requires first aid or medical support, and we’re happy to see the service expanded.
“Since 2019, our volunteers have provided all kinds of assistance to people who are under the influence of alcohol or drugs, including ensuring patients who have lost their loved ones or friends during a night out get home safely by requesting a licenced taxi for them.
“And the team is ready to respond to any emergency. In September last year, St John volunteers dealt with several patients who were wounded in a traumatic incident that took place in Birmingham city centre.”
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