Keeping The Public Safe in Coventry

Street Patrol

The Street Patrol team operates 7 days a week to keep the city centre vibrant, secure, and accessible.

They play a vital role in addressing anti-social behaviour and supporting businesses with shoplifting, collaborating closely with police and security teams.

Additionally, they assist visitors with wayfinding, helping locals and tourists navigate the city, find landmarks, events, and shops. Their presence ensures a safe environment and a welcoming atmosphere for everyone.

Personal Safety Items

Each year before Christmas, Coventry BID runs a city-wide safety campaign to boost shopper confidence in the city centre.

This initiative distributes thousands of crime prevention items, such as purse bells, card defenders, purse cables, and personal safety alarms, to reduce theft during the busy festive season.

In collaboration with local partners like banks and building societies, the BID ensures these items and safety advice reach many people.

Ask For Angela

When enjoying a night out in Coventry city centre, your safety is a priority.

Many venues support the ‘Ask for Angela’ scheme—a discreet way to seek help if you feel unsafe or uncomfortable.

Simply approach a staff member and “Ask for Angela.” They are trained to assist you, whether it’s arranging a safe departure, calling a taxi, or contacting security.

This initiative ensures a safe and welcoming nightlife for everyone in the city centre.

Best Bar None

Best Bar None (BBN) is a voluntary accreditation scheme that promotes high standards in the licensed trade.

Launched in Manchester in 2003, it has expanded to many towns and cities across England, Scotland, Wales, and internationally, with over 40 active schemes in England.

Supported by the Home Office and industry bodies, BBN recognises and rewards licensees who prioritise safety, responsibility, and operational excellence, enhancing the overall experience for customers.

Purple Flag

Coventry city centre is proud to have earned the Purple Flag accreditation, which recognises it as a safe, lively, and well-managed destination for night outings.

This standard reflects high expectations for safety, cleanliness, and a welcoming atmosphere.

Achieved through strong collaboration among Coventry BID, City Council, West Midlands Police, and local venues, initiatives include taxi safeguarding, responsible venue standards, “Ask for Angela,” and Best Bar None, ensuring the city remains prepared and responsive for all visitors.

West Midlands Night Safety Charter

Everyone should feel safe in the city centre, whether working, socialising, or travelling home after dark.

The Women’s Safety Charter is a commitment from local businesses and organisations to create a supportive environment for those who may feel vulnerable at night.

By signing the Charter, they agree to improve safety through clear reporting procedures, training, and welcoming spaces.

In Coventry, we collaborate with partners to promote the Charter and foster a night-time environment where everyone feels confident and safe.

Anti-spiking Equipment

We collaborate with city centre venues to enhance safety during nights out by providing anti-spiking equipment to businesses in the night-time economy.

This includes tools that enable staff to prevent, detect, and respond to drink spiking concerns swiftly and discreetly.

By equipping venues and supporting staff, we aim to create a safer environment where issues are promptly addressed, ensuring everyone can enjoy their night out in Coventry with confidence and peace of mind.

 

Bleed Kits and Defibrillators

A network of defibrillators and emergency bleed control kits has been introduced across Coventry city centre, ensuring life-saving equipment is always nearby when needed.

These are located in key, accessible areas such as shopping centres, public spaces, and main routes.

This initiative enables the public, businesses, and emergency services to quickly access vital equipment during emergencies, supporting faster responses while waiting for professional help.

It reflects a shared commitment to enhancing safety in the city centre.

BID Radio Scheme

Businesses in Coventry city centre are connected through a shared radio system, enhancing communication and helping to address concerns swiftly.

This network links shops, bars, restaurants, Street Patrol, CCTV operators, local enforcement, and the police, allowing for real-time information sharing about incidents and suspicious behaviour.

In the night-time economy, it enables venues to safely manage situations by exchanging information about individuals asked to leave, fostering a safer and more enjoyable night out for all.