Universities team up in street marshal scheme to keep community safe

Initiated by the University of Sussex the scheme is also supported by the University of Brighton and BIMM.

The scheme, piloted earlier this year, aims to promote a supportive and reassuring environment for students and other members of the community travelling through Brighton and Hove on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday nights.

Pairs of marshals walk around designated areas of the city between 10pm and 4am, and offer safety advice and assistance.

The marshals, who patrol in three mixed-gender groups, are accredited through the Community Safety Accreditation scheme (CSAS) and approved by Sussex Police. The scheme was developed in consultation with Brighton and Hove City Council and the Students’ Union at both universities.

Cllr Emma Daniel, chairman of the neighbourhoods, inclusion, communities and equalities committee, said: “I am really pleased that the University of Sussex is leading on this important initiative.

“Whether it’s through offering safety advice to people travelling through the city at night, or making sure that people get home safely, the Street Wise scheme is a useful service not just for students but also for the wider community.”

The scheme is also designed to strengthen community relationships by encouraging responsible behaviour at night, particularly in residential areas.

Tim Westlake, chief operating officer at the University of Sussex, said: “Moving to a new city can be daunting for many students, who may be away from home for the first time. So we wanted to do everything we can to make sure they know how to navigate the city, especially on busy evenings.

“Through listening to local residents we also felt our street marshals scheme would be important in promoting harmonious and long-lasting relationships within our community.”

Patrols take place every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday night during University term time.

The marshals patrol the Lewes Road, the Level, and London Road areas of the city.