A night-time first aid service is set to return to Luton town centre this year after receiving fresh funding aimed at improving safety during busy evenings and major public events.
Luton BID has confirmed it will fund the return of the Safer Luton Partnership’s SOS First Aid response service, which provides on-the-ground support during peak night-time periods and large gatherings across the town.
The mobile service has previously operated in Luton and provides first aid, welfare checks and safeguarding for vulnerable people, as well as reassurance for residents, visitors and businesses in the town centre.
Staffed by trained personnel and operating from a mobile van, the SOS team can respond quickly to incidents and position themselves wherever help is most needed, including busy nightlife areas and large outdoor events.
The service will also be connected to the LBAC/Luton Safe Radio Scheme, allowing staff to communicate directly with police, CCTV operators, security teams and businesses. The link-up is designed to help partners quickly share information and respond to emerging issues or potential risks.
The team will be deployed during a range of major events and high-footfall nights across the year, including St Patrick’s Day, Luton Carnival, Luton Pride, Diwali celebrations, Christmas weekends and New Year’s Eve. It will also operate on key World Cup match nights, along with six additional evenings scheduled based on local demand.
Organisers say the service forms part of wider efforts to support a safer and more welcoming town centre while helping businesses and the night-time economy.
Fergus McLardy, manager for Luton BID, said: “By funding the return of the SOS night-time service, we are bringing a trusted, compassionate and highly trained presence back into the town centre. It helps people feel safe and supported while strengthening our night-time economy and is a major step in creating a welcoming environment for everyone who lives, works or spends time in Luton.”
Joan Bailey, director of the Safer Luton Partnership, added: “We are grateful to Luton BID for providing funds to bring the SOS First Aid provision back into Luton town centre to support the night-time economy and be present at major events. By working together, we can create safe spaces for people to enjoy the array of wonderful events that Luton has to offer knowing that emergency services are available when required.”
Be the first to comment