Hale Independent Issue 174

3 JANUARY 2025 Visit our website: www.independentnewspapers.co.uk 10% off your first order of Compatible Cartridges ALTRINCHAM town centre is set to get its own Street Angels programme with a call going out for volunteers to help in its safety work. The initiative is a collaboration between the town’s Business Improvement District (BID) and St George’s church. Those behind the plan say it is part of an “ongo- ing mission” to make Altrincham a safer and more welcoming place after dark. The Street Angels will officially hit the streets of the town on their first patrol weekend of February 28, during the ‘Taste of Altrincham’ event. Regular patrols will start from Easter onwards. Plans are being drawn up for an information evening with Street Angels founder Paul Blakey in the new year with training sessions following in February and March. Street Angels are “compassionate, community-fo- cused volunteers” who will be in the town centre on busy weekend evenings. A Street Angels spokesperson said: “Their role is to provide a reassuring presence, offering assistance to anyone in need, whether that involves practical help, emotional support, or simply being there for a friendly chat. “Plans are also in place to introduce a safe place drop-in where individuals can seek refuge or support when needed. “Every Street Angel volunteer will undergo thorough training, equipping them with essential skills in areas such as conflict awareness, first aid and safeguarding. “Armed with these skills, Street Angels will act as extra eyes and ears for the community, looking out for anyone who might be at risk or require assistance.” Each team of Street Angels will carry a rucksack filled with practical items designed to meet a vari- ety of needs, including flip-flops for those who may struggle to walk in uncomfortable shoes. Other items include foil blankets to keep people warm, sanitary pads, hair bands, and tissues for personal care and plasters, water, and even lollipops to provide comfort and care. Street Angels was launched in November 2005 as a response to issues in the night-time economy in Halifax town centre. The success in Halifax attracted attention from other towns and cities and soon Street Angels were spreading their wings. The spokesperson said: “We replicated the model into over 140 towns and cities across the UK and overseas and into other areas of needs such as home- lessness, music festivals, inside nightclubs, around communities, chaplaincy and more.” To see what Street Angels do in other towns visit streetangels.org.uk or facebook.com/rocstreetangels or instagram.com/rocstreetangels . Angels are here to help Reassuring: Street Angels in Leeds city centre. The Angels are coming to Altrincham (Photo credit: streetangels.org.uk)