Body Cameras for Southport Door Staff

Body Cameras for Southport Door Staff

Bars and clubs in Southport town centre are being offered the use of the latest Body-Worn cameras as part of the latest initiative by Southport Business Improvement District (BID) to help deter alcohol related disorder and anti-social behaviour.

The BID has joined forces with the police and Sefton Council to roll out the initiative following discussions with a number of club owners in the town centre.  It forms part of a wider package of measures to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour associated with the night time economy as well as helping to promote a safer environment for revellers who want to socialise in the town.

Hugh Evans, BID CEO, says: “The cameras will provide added reassurance for door staff as well as complementing the premises’ own CCTV systems and the wider town centre network.

“The cameras will capture images as well as audio and will be able to identify the build-up to any incident, which is really beneficial.

“We already have buy-in from a number of bars and clubs across the town who are keen to use the cameras.  The mere fact that the cameras are in use should help defuse and de-escalate incidents before they get out of hand.

“Our own research has shown that young people in particular have a perception that nightlife in Southport is not safe when the actual figures show otherwise.”

Inspector Graham Fisher of Merseyside Police said “This is an excellent initiative to help ensure that Southport is a safe place for visitors enjoying our nights out in Southport.  We will continue to work together in partnership with Southport BID and Sefton Council and I thank them for introducing this initiative”

Leader of the Liberal Democrats in Southport, Councillor Sue McGuire recently went out with the police on a Saturday night gain more of an insight to the issues surrounding Southport’s nightlife, “Body worn cameras are a great idea and something Councillors were happy to contribute to”

Councillor McGuire “Anything that will improve people’s perception of Southport’s night time economy will benefit businesses, residents and visitors. We have some fantastic new bars and we need to do everything possible to make Southport an attractive venue for people in the evening.”

The scheme also has the full backing and support of local Door Supervisors and security teams.  BSS North West, who offer door security to several bars and clubs in town.  Operations Manager, Anthony White says of the scheme “These cameras will be a vital tool in helping make Southport a safer night out.  We are working closely with Southport BID, Merseyside Police and the Council in fighting violent and drug related crimes.  I would like to personally thank the BID and councillor Sue McGuire for funding this project”.

This partnership has also led to the reintroduction of Taxi Marshals at selected weekends and public holidays.  Other key priorities include increasing the number of premises linked to the town’s radio network and usage of the on-line reporting system.

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