Cambridge just received the fantastic news that our Purple Flag status has been renewed. Purple Flag is an award for the safe management of towns and cities after dark (5pm – 5am). There are over 70 Purple Flag towns and cities in the UK and Ireland. The application is rigorous and Cambridge’s successful renewal represents hard work from the multi-agency steering group.
Working in partnership: Cambridge BID and CAMBAC (project co-leaders) supported by: Addenbrookes, Cambridge City and County Councils, Cambridgeshire Police and Fire services, CCTV, Cambs Cuisine, Hyline Security, La Raza, The Regal, Street Pastors, Ta Bouche, Trinity Hall College.
Find out more at www.cambridgepurpleflag.com
Purple Flag weekend
We will be celebrating Purple Flag next weekend, 7th – 9th October. Timed to fall within the University of Cambridge Freshers’ Week, it’s an opportunity for pubs, clubs and bars to promote the work they do and provide a great night out for all in our vibrant city. We are working closely with Cambridge and Anglia Ruskin universities, and aim to support students to feel safe on a night out in our city by using licensed taxi ranks, being aware of the Street Pastors, NightLite, and Ask for Angela.
More information on event: https://www.facebook.com/events/947341799464129/?active_tab=discussion
Achievement in spite of adversity
The ‘after dark’ economy is worth over £66bn annually to the UK, supporting thousands of businesses, and employing 4.5% of the UK workforce. Covid-19 has shaken the nightlife and hospitality industries, and businesses have been treading challenging territory throughout the pandemic. Purple Flag values have been instrumental in reopening policies for Cambridge and elsewhere, as the night-time economy has adjusted to new ways of operating.
The year ahead for Purple Flag
Cambridge Purple Flag is a multi-agency partnership. Our vision for the coming year is to provide training and support for venues as they exit a difficult period, keeping customers safe and allowing them to focus on enjoying a great night out.
Keeping customers safe
CAMBAC
(Cambridge Business Against Crime) supports nearly 200 businesses in the day- and night-time economies. They run a city-wide radio scheme linked to the Police and CCTV.
Taxi marshals
The team work from 11pm – 3am on weekends, helping everyone get home safely. Find them at the Taxi Rank at St Andrews Street.
Street Pastors
On Friday and Saturday nights 10pm – 4am, the dedicated Street Pastors keep an eye out for anyone in need. They offer directions, food and drink, and other practical support. They are currently seeking volunteers to help staff the NightLite drop-in safe space. Please apply to director@cambridgestreetpastors.org.uk
Cambridge Street Aid
A charity supporting individuals experiencing homelessness and rough sleeping. There are 15 #TapToDonate points across Cambridge. The annual Street Aid week runs from 11th – 16th October, look out for more information.
