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Liverpool City Council, in partnership with Merseyside Police, recently conducted two targeted operations aimed at evaluating how bars and pubs in the city manage safeguarding concerns raised by patrons. These exercises focused on the venues’ handling of potential drink spiking incidents and their implementation of the Ask for Angela scheme, an initiative designed to provide discreet support for individuals who may feel unsafe.
During the initial operation, undercover officers visited various licensed establishments within Liverpool’s city centre, presenting staff with a scenario involving a suspicious person loitering near an unattended drink. Later, they reported that the drink seemed to have an unusual taste. Results showed that 60% of these venues responded appropriately by taking the issue seriously, offering reassurance to the customer, and testing the drink in question. Those businesses that fell short of expected standards will receive further guidance to enhance their safeguarding policies.
The following evening, a second operation assessed staff responses to the Ask for Angela scheme, which enables patrons to discreetly ask for help if they feel at risk. Staff members can then provide assistance, ensure the individual leaves safely, or contact relevant services. Impressively, every venue involved demonstrated full compliance with safeguarding measures and handled the situation correctly.
These activities are part of a broader ongoing collaboration between Liverpool City Council, Merseyside Police, and local licensed premises to promote safer nightlife experiences. This partnership supports initiatives like Liverpool’s Night-Time Safety Charter—a voluntary program encouraging businesses to improve safety through training and resource provision, currently signed up to by over 70 venues. The city has also earned Purple Flag accreditation for sixteen consecutive years, reflecting a sustained commitment to creating secure environments through efforts such as Operation Halo, the Citywatch radio network, and dedicated police patrols. These efforts align with Liverpool’s Citysafe Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) Action Plan, which aims to raise awareness, support victims, prevent abuse, and create safer public spaces. The action plan is set for an update next month, ahead of the 16 days of activism against VAWG.
Councillor Harry Doyle, Cabinet Member for Culture, Health and Wellbeing, emphasized the importance of these checks: “These operations are an important way of checking that the safeguards we expect to see in licensed premises are working in practice. The results show that the vast majority of venues take safeguarding seriously and are ready to step in and support customers when concerns are raised.” He added, “Where improvements are needed, we will continue to work positively with businesses to provide advice, guidance and training. Our approach is about making sure staff have the confidence and knowledge to respond effectively, helping everyone enjoy a safe night out in Liverpool.”
Councillor Laura Robertson-Collins, Cabinet Member for Communities, Neighbourhoods and Streetscene, highlighted the city’s reputation for safe nightlife: “Liverpool is rightly recognised for having one of the best and safest night-time economies in the country, and that reputation is built on strong partnerships and a shared commitment to looking after people.” She further stated, “Everyone should be able to enjoy a night our without feeling unsafe. Initiatives such as our Night-Time Safety Charter and Ask for Angela help to create environments where people know that support is available and that staff know how to notice and respond to any concerns.”
Chief Inspector Chris Ruane of the Liverpool City Centre Neighbourhood Policing Team underscored the value of partnership working: “Everyone should be able to enjoy a night out in Liverpool feeling safe and supported, and these operations highlight the importance of strong partnership working in helping us achieve that.” He praised the positive reception of the Ask for Angela scheme, noting, “It is particularly encouraging to see such positive responses to the Ask for Angela scheme, demonstrating that venue staff are aware of the vital role they play in safeguarding people who may feel vulnerable or at risk.” Ruane acknowledged there is still progress to be made regarding drink spiking prevention but emphasized these operations offer a chance to directly engage with businesses and improve safeguards. He concluded, “Keeping people safe is a shared responsibility, and by continuing to work together we can ensure Liverpool remains a place where everyone can enjoy a night out with confidence, knowing that support is available when they need it.”
Read the full article on Liverpool Express here: Read More
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