More police officers will be on the streets of Huddersfield to help people feel safer in the run-up to Christmas.

The night-time patrols are part of a package of measures introduced by Kirklees Police and Safer Kirklees in the last few weeks to make Huddersfield and Dewsbury town centres safer, and particularly to boost the night-time economy.

They have included work to ensure local taxis are roadworthy and the deployment of a ‘night safety’ bus in Huddersfield.

The bus has been introduced specifically to support women, but it is open to anyone who may find themselves in a vulnerable position while enjoying a night out in Huddersfield.

The bus and its team of trained staff from Locala and CHART Kirklees are on hand to help people report sexual harassment, provide a safe space if someone is feeling threatened, and offer support for those enjoying the nightlife of Huddersfield. 

Street Marshalls have also been funded to support the busy nights in Huddersfield town centre, and provide extra support to help people get home safely.

 

Night safety bus

Sgt Amanda Holroyd, of the Kirklees Town Centre Team, said: “As the Christmas season gets underway we will, of course, see more people out at night enjoying Christmas parties and events.

“Town centre officers are working with neighbourhood policing colleagues and partners to make sure a visible presence will be where it is needed to help residents have safe and incident-free evenings all the way through December.

“The vast majority of people using our town centres do have a safe and enjoyable time and this work is intended to provide that extra bit of reassurance at what will be a busy time.”

Kirklees Council Cabinet member for learning, aspiration and communities, Clr Carole Pattison, said: “I’m really pleased that the police are stepping up their activity in our town centres over the next few weeks.

“Huddersfield and Dewsbury have plenty of brilliant events, shopping and hospitality on offer this Christmas, it’s great to know that shoppers and revellers will be able to enjoy them all safely too.”