Commissioner supports Cambridge Street Pastors

POLICE and Crime Commissioner, Darryl Preston, is today (Sunday 27^th March 2022) announcing that Cambridge Street Pastors are to receive £4,000 for new uniforms for volunteers.

The funding is available as part of the third round of Government’s Safer Streets Fund. In October 2021 Cambridgeshire was successfully awarded £471K from the Fund to tackle violence against women and girls.

Cambridge Street Pastor volunteers are trained to help those who wish to enjoy the Cambridge nightlife on Fridays and Saturdays and find themselves needing assistance. They also operate NightLite on Saturday nights at Downing Place URC, a place where people can rest, recover, wait in safety for a lift home or paramedics, recharge their phone or have a hot drink.

“Everyone has the right to enjoy our county’s night life without fear for their safety. For too long this has not been the case for many women,” Darryl Preston said. “I have spent a shift with Cambridge Street Pastors and seen first-hand the reassurance they provide.

 “They are a safe space for anyone in need.”

The volunteers are easily recognisable in their blue caps and uniform. They keep an eye out for anyone who might look lost, sick or just in need of someone to talk to.

Dorothy Peyton-Jones, Cambridge Street Pastors Chair of Trustees, said:

“Cambridge Street Pastors are enormously grateful for our partnership with the Commissioner and Cambridgeshire Police.  As we rebuild our services post-pandemic, the receipt of this grant to replenish uniform and equipment stocks for our volunteers is very welcome and timely.”

All volunteers carry an ID and will contact emergency services or paramedics if required.