The aim of our public guardianship projects is to reduce opportunities for potential crime as well as providing support to the public so that they know what to do, and where to go if instances of anti-social behaviour take place.
Taxi marshals
Expected completion date –Ongoing between March 2024 – March 2025
The Safer Streets funding has allowed us to launch a taxi marshal scheme in the town centre. The Taxi Marshals will be out every Friday and Saturday evening between the hours of 10.30pm and 3.30am in Folkestone Town Centre.
The marshals can be identified by their bright orange vests and will serve not only as a visible presence in Folkestone Town Centre but they will also assist with helping members of the public to a taxi at the end of the evening. They will patrol between McDonalds from 10.30pm and then work their way towards Party Bar as the evening progresses.
Since the scheme launched they have assisted with numerous medical issues, helped vulnerable people get home safely and engaged with door staff of various venues to help create a safe environment for everyone out socialising in the town.
Emergency trauma packs
Project completed
36 St John’s emergency trauma packs have been purchased and distributed to licensed premises across the district. Trauma packs contain supplies for treating multiple casualties following a major event. They include all the equipment needed to treat catastrophic and life-threatening bleeds.
Urban Pastors
Expected completion date – March 2024 – March 2025
Part of the project fund will be given to the Urban Pastors to support the work they do. The Urban Pastors operate mainly in Folkestone and Cheriton and they aim to provide support and help to those who need it.
The pastors engage with members of the public offering support and guidance to those who need it. If necessary, they can signpost to other agencies and organisations that partner with local Community Safety Partnership.
Neighbourhood Watch (NHW)
Expected completion date – November 2024
The funding has purchased more NHW merchandise such as stickers and signs for existing groups. Money from the fund will also be used to create a new NHW area within the district.
Sign up to the Neighbourhood Watch Scheme
Hollie Guard app
Project completed
Hollie Guard is a personal safety app, it is designed to provide enhanced levels of protection and can be used as a personal alarm, deterrent and evidence catcher.
Using funding from the Safer Streets Project 50 Hollie Guard Advanced apps have been purchased and sent to Home-Start Shepway. These apps will be distributed to the most vulnerable people within the district that otherwise may not be able to purchase them. This will help to keep these individuals safe from harm and reduce violence against women and girls.
Visit the Hollie Guard website to find out more about the app.