Making the streets of Chester safer
Street Angels Chester is a Church-led initiative. Working in partnership with police, local council, businesses and the community, we want to help make Chester city centre a safer place on Friday and Saturday nights.
Street Angels Chester send out teams of trained volunteers to walk the city streets into the early hours on Friday nights caring for, practically helping and listening to people, especially those in vulnerable or difficult situations.
Although Street Angels is a Church-led initiative you do not need to be a Christian to volunteer with us. Anyone over the age of 18 can apply.
Part of the ROC Angels network of projects, Street Angels Chester was initially funded as a pilot project by Safer Streets Cheshire to initially run from December 2023 until the end of March 2024. With stakeholder support we have extended the project indefinitely.
To volunteer or find out more, head to our volunteering page.
FAQs
How do I become a Street Angel?
We are currently recruiting Street Angel volunteers to join a team. First, head to our volunteering page. Next, download and read the volunteer expectations. Then, fill out the short volunteer form. We will then get in touch to discuss the role and invite you to some training and a first observation shift.
Who funds us?
Funding comes from various sources; trusts, churches, commissioning organisations and donations from individuals. There is a need for further funding to become a long-term project and expand what we do to help make people safer.
How can we find you on the street?
We walk around the city centre in team of two, three or four. We wear purple branded high vis tabards. When out, you can also find us using the walksafe.io app map feature.
How are funds spent?
Funding is spent on administration, equipment, training and storage.
When are Street Angel teams on the streets?
Shifts run from 10pm to 3am most Fridays and Saturdays and on special events, such as university welcome weeks and race days. The more volunteers we have, the more help we can offer.
Who can become a Street Angel?
Street Angels Chester is a Church-led initiative. It is made up of volunteers who want to help make Chester city centre a safer and better place. Although Street Angels is a Church-led initiative, you do not need to be a Christian to volunteer. We ask that all volunteers are respectful and adhere to the Christian ethos of the project. Anyone over the age of 18 can apply.
How else can I get involved?
Pray for the project. We’d love to set up a prayer team who pray when teams are going out. Donate to support the project going forward. Help with administration. If you want to volunteer your time in this way, get in touch with Gary.
What does a Street Angel do?
Street Angels walk the streets as a team in the evening and night time, responding appropriately to help people in need. For example, this could be to offer emotional support, signpost someone to a service, or to ensure someone gets somewhere safely. Working alongside emergency services and venues, no evening is the same.
Do I need special skills?
A comprehensive training programme is provided which includes understanding the aims and objectives, drug and alcohol awareness and conflict resolution.
How will Street Angels work with the police?
Street Angels are trained volunteers who will work independently but in co-operation with other agencies including police. Street Angels are not involved in law enforcement and have no authority beyond that of ordinary members of the public.
How can I find out more?
To find out more, contact Gary Wootten, Project Coordinator.
