Streets Pastors… bringing peace to our city centre. Street Pastors is a countrywide initiative set up by the Ascension Trust – which provides support and training to local schemes. The first volunteers in Peterborough started work on 13 December 2008 with the support of the City Council, police and other local agencies.

Saturday night out with Street Pastors in Peterborough sees volunteers from local churches going out into the vibrant night time economy. They chat to those they meet – customers, taxi drivers, door staff, licensees and police officers.

The teams of four people work from 10pm to 4am. Their aim is to provide practical help and support for those enjoying a night on the town. They offer water to help with rehydration, flip flops to protect the feet (for when the high heels have become too painful) and basic first aid. They also pick up glass and bottles left lying around to avoid them being turned into weapons.

In addition, Street Pastors offer a reassuring presence, helping you or your friends that have been separated to find each other, waiting with a single female until her friends have been found – putting her in a taxi home if necessary or convincing a single male that sleeping it off in a doorway isn’t a good idea!

”It is not just about the practical help, but also to engage, care and listen for all we meet, including door men, taxi drivers and clubbers. People often become very emotional when they are drunk and we provide that caring listening ear. Many are very happy for us to pray with them about their problems.”