Keeping Christmas nights out safe in Tameside

Tameside’s pubs and bars have been given a pre-Christmas safety boost following a series of spot checks carried out as part of a coordinated operation to support the borough’s night-time economy.

On the evening of 21 November, Tameside Council’s Public Protection team joined forces with Greater Manchester Police for Operation Night safe, a proactive initiative designed to assist licensees, promote public safety, and ensure venues are meeting important compliance standards.

More than 40 premises across the borough were visited throughout the night. Each received a range of materials supporting two key national safety campaigns. Venues were provided with posters, beer mats and information promoting the White Ribbon campaign, which encourages men to challenge sexist comments and harassing behaviour in order to help tackle violence against women and girls.

Pubs and bars also received refreshed posters for the Ask for Angela scheme. The initiative allows anyone who feels unsafe or vulnerable on a night out to discreetly ask staff for assistance by “asking for Angela”, enabling them to get help quickly and safely.

During the operation, officers carried out checks on licensing conditions, environmental health standards, fire safety and general public safety. The majority of venues were found to be compliant, and any concerns identified will be followed up by the relevant teams.

As part of the wider operation, Parking Services also conducted enforcement activity on Market Street in Stalybridge Town Centre. Although the road retains several short-stay and loading-only bays for local businesses, it remains a designated no-parking zone. Visitors are reminded that enforcement will continue to ensure the area remains safe and accessible.

Cllr Laura Boyle, Tameside Council’s Executive Member for Environmental Services and Neighbourhoods, praised the efforts of all involved. She said: “This is a busy time of year for our night time economy - there will be thousands of Tameside residents visiting local pubs and bars in the run-up to Christmas. It’s great to be working closely with local businesses and our partners to ensure premises are operating safely to help protect the public and also to reach the community with key safety messages. Thank you to everyone involved.”

For more information on the White Ribbon campaign, visit www.whiteribbon.org.uk.
To learn more about the Ask for Angela scheme, visit www.askforangela.co.uk.