Safezone - A place to chill, chat & Change
As evening falls it is reassuring for many parents to know that down at Bangor’s seafront there is a safe place for young and old to seek refuge and support when needed. For many years the unsung heroes of Safe Zone have been offering late night revellers a cup of tea or coffee and sometimes a toastie to help them slow down, sober up, chill out, before they make their way home.
Unfortunately all too often many parents don’t know where their children are and as the seafront has always been a magnet drawing the innocent seeking experience and early maturity, they quite often end up at the seafront. A local missioner, pioneered the concept of “Safe Zone” in the 1990’s as part of his expression of religious faith but critically as a reflection of his desire to work on the streets and positively engage with those individuals who had the potential to harm themselves or others either intentionally or unintentionally.
As the town centre offers the opportunity for the local communities to indulge in alcohol and also drugs, it seemed appropriate that Chris set up “his stall” at the heart of the seafront night-time thoroughfare. Initially regarded with some degree of scepticism, Chris’s persistence of presence broke down barriers and within a period of time he and his team were recognised for their work in helping the vulnerable, the disorientated and the needy.
The “Safe Zone” has grown in size and popularity over the past two years. It has expanded its training and offer of support after receiving much needed funding from North Down Community Safety Partnership. The team of volunteers offer a safe haven for people to attend at times of need and those who require immediate assistance, support or sign posting to key services.
With several members trained in First Aid, the Safe Zone team, can be seen walking around the bustling High Street and seafront distributing bottles of water, hot tea/coffee and talking to members of the public, offering support to those who are distressed or vulnerable. The project also looks to mediate between parties in dispute, disarming developing tensions through mediation.
A mobile unit operates outside of McCullough’s on Friday and Saturday evening from 8pm - 2.30am and is monitored by the PSNI & CCTV. The unit provides important sign posting information on support services for domestic violence, substance abuse and acts as an information point for those not familiar with the town.
