Mavis hits the streets
It will provide a hub for police, ambulance, street wardens, street pastors, licensing and other local agencies working in the night-time economy. From the bus these agencies will be able to offer immediate, highly visible assistance to people in Weston after dark.
The single-decker bus was bought by North Somerset Council, with support from partner organisations including the police and ambulance services. It has been converted by Leicester Carriage Builders and will be in operation for the first time over the Bank Holiday weekend.
The distinctive purple bus will be located in the heart of the town centre at the junction of High Street and Regent Street, providing a safe place to vulnerable people. It will include facilities for minor first aid, provided by paramedics, and help reduce demand on the accident and emergency department at Weston General Hospital.
As well as its primary role in the night-time economy, Mavis will also provide a valuable community resource during the day, acting as a mobile platform which can be used across North Somerset to deliver outreach work, health care awareness and training.
Cllr Felicity Baker, North Somerset Council’s executive member responsible for community safety, said:
“Weston has a popular night time economy and in general people enjoy a safe night out. Sometimes though a night out can go wrong for a variety of reasons. The Streetsafe bus provides a safe haven if this happens and we would encourage anyone in difficulty to visit it to get help and support. Mavis’ arrival is the culmination of months of work involving the council, police, ambulance, Weston Business Improvement District and other local people and agencies,” said Inspector Sharon Bennett of Avon and Somerset Police.
We’re delighted it’s now in service and hope it will be a beacon for people who find their night out hasn’t gone as planned.”
Minister for Policing, Crime, Criminal Justice and Victims Mike Penning said:
“The Government is tackling alcohol as a driver of crime and disorder, and is supporting 20 Local Alcohol Action Areas including Weston-super-Mare by providing specialist Home Office advice to community partnerships including businesses and local authorities.
The launch of Mavis will help agencies work together to not only deliver a great night out, but a safe night out.”
The bus is part of the ongoing efforts to gain Purple Flag status for Weston town centre. This national accreditation scheme recognises towns that are excellent at managing their evening and night-time economy.
