Street Pastors

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Street Pastors

The Street Pastors in Newcastle are working alongside Safe Newcastle partners to offer help and assistance to people who are out and about enjoying Christmas nights out.

These volunteers work in teams of three and go out every Friday and Saturday night between 10pm and 4am, but over the Christmas period these hours are being extended. They will also be taking the message of safety into the streets by distributing the Safe in the City material to revellers.

Over the last year this charity has helped literally thousands of people. Recently they talked a man out of committing suicide by jumping off the High Level Bridge, but more often the common incidents they deal with include: looking after vulnerable females who have become separated from their friends, helping people to sober up so they can get home safely, directing people to hotels, taxi ranks and bus stops, providing basis first aid, calming aggravated situations and providing a listening ear to people who are upset or distressed.

Sam Douthwaite, Street Pastors Co-ordinator said “The Street Pastors ethos is to get out of their churches to make a difference to the lives of young people. Of course we are there to help people of all ages but the majority of those we reach are under the age of 30. That is why we welcome the opportunity to get involved in the Safe in the City campaign. We don’t preach at people, we demonstrate the gospel through our actions and deeds”.