Going Out and Staying Safe

Press Release

Published on 11 December 2024

Stratford-on-Avon District Council is reminding residents about keeping safe whilst going out in the District this winter.

Make sure to consider how best to stay safe when going out for Christmas and New Years. This includes arranging a safe way to get home before going out and looking after the people you are going out with. Here are some useful tips:

• Ensure your phone is fully charged
• Check train stations, taxi ranks, bus stop locations and put the numbers of trusted local firms in your phone
• Make a plan with your friends before you go out and confirm how everyone will be getting home safely
• Check you have enough money to cover the costs

Make sure to avoid preloading on alcohol before going out. Preloading involves drinking alcohol on private premises before going for a night out in a pub or club and drinking more alcohol. Studies have shown that when people preload, they often drink more than expected which can lead to a number of unwanted consequences.

If you notice someone is uncomfortable with another person's behaviour, show your support by being an active bystander. It can be as simple as standing between a person to block their line of sight. Ask that person if they need any help. In an emergency always call 999.

Stratford-on-Avon District Council's CCTV team will be working closely with Warwickshire Police and local retail and licensed premises to share information about crime and anti-social behaviour including around the night time economy and suspected drink and drug driving.

If you're using a taxi or private hire to get home. Before getting in, check that the vehicle and driver are licensed. All licensed vehicles will display a licence plate on the front or rear of the vehicle. The plate will include the licensing authority, licence number & vehicle registration. Look out for these identifying plates before getting into a vehicle. A licensed driver will wear or have on display an identity badge. This badge will include the licensing authority and the driver licence number. If you cannot see either of these don't be afraid to ask. A licensed driver will not hesitate in showing you and confirming that they are licensed to take you.

Councillor Natalie Gist, Portfolio Holder for Law and Governance, including Community Safety, said: "We are reminding residents how they can help to stay safe when going out this Winter. By taking simple steps they can also look after friends and loved ones. Our CCTV team will be working closely with Warwickshire Police and local businesses to keep residents safe and to identify any crime or ASB taking place".

Councillor Lorraine Grocott, Portfolio Holder for Environmental and Neighbourhood Services, said: "Our Licensing team are advising residents who chose to get a taxi home to be safe by checking that they get into a vehicle displaying a licence plate and which has a licensed driver."