West Midlands Police have activated 'safe spaces' in Birmingham city centre tonight as thousands gather to watch England's World Cup quarter final against Norway. The move comes amid warnings that alcohol-related violence, particularly against women and girls, spikes during major football tournaments.
Safe Spaces Provide Sanctuary and Medical Aid
The safe spaces, located on Broad Street, offer a secure physical sanctuary for anyone targeted by abuse or harassment. Staffed by St John Ambulance volunteers and supported by NHS clinicians, they provide immediate medical assistance and safeguarding support. The service runs from 9pm to 5am during peak periods and was first launched in 2019.
Police and PCC Highlight Increased Risks
West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Foster acknowledged: “Alcohol-related violence, including violence against women and girls, increases significantly during major football tournaments.” He added that the scheme prevents emergency services from being overwhelmed by offering on-site care for victims of spiking, violence, accidents, or alcohol-related harm.
Chief Inspector Amanda Thompson, night-time economy lead, said: “Tackling violence against women and girls and serious youth violence are our top priorities. The Safe Spaces act as a sanctuary and are a valuable asset to both officers and the public, especially for people feeling vulnerable during nights out.”
Funding and Partnership
The safe spaces are jointly funded by the NHS Birmingham and Solihull and Black Country Integrated Care Board, which provides emergency ambulance crews, and the West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner. Officers are deployed every Friday and Saturday to police the night-time economy and reduce serious violence, with additional presence tonight on Broad Street.
How to Get Police Help
Police urge the public to use safe spaces or contact them via: website for non-emergency reports, call 101 for non-urgent matters, 999 in emergencies, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
