You’ve likely seen the Safe Space vehicle patrolling the city, offering enhanced safety and support. Even if you’ve never needed its help, have you ever thought about who the talented team working tirelessly to keep Worcester safe are?

Under the dedicated leadership of Worcester BID, appointing Richard Nash as Lead Safe Space Medic, the Safe Space initiative boasts a committed 12-strong team delivering vital community care. Safe Space is supported by team members like David Lynch, who brings 14 years of first-response experience with the police and counter-terrorism teams; Charles Cartwright, a seasoned first responder with over three decades of service; and Mark Glass, an on-call firefighter with extensive expertise in the hospitality and business sectors, bringing indispensable business operation knowledge to the team. Together with eight additional team members, they form a dynamic group devoted to safeguarding you – the city’s residents, workers, and visitors.

In response to Worcester’s changing needs, Worcester BID has extended Safe Space services with funding from The Home Office to conduct Hotspot Policing. This strategy targets areas with the highest concentrations of crime, and the results speak for themselves: since patrols began operating in high-priority locations such as The Cross, violent offences have dropped significantly – with 60 fewer violent incidents recorded.

The service’s impact extends beyond its late-night patrols on Fridays, Saturdays, and student nights (10 PM – 4 AM), now operating during daytime hours from Tuesday to Saturday, 9 AM to 4 PM. As of April 2025, these hours will expand further, covering the city’s opening and closing times from 8 AM to 6 PM. This extended coverage ensures Safe Space is present during the city’s busiest periods, enhancing safety for all.

From attending medical emergencies to assisting businesses with safety concerns and providing support for rough sleepers, the Safe Space team has become integral to Worcester’s sense of security and community.

Their expanded hours and experienced teams’ dedication make Safe Space an essential service for the city. Residents, businesses, and visitors alike can feel confident that the city remains a welcoming, secure place to live, work, and socialise.

So, the next time you see the Safe Space vehicle out and about, don’t hesitate to stop by and say hello to the team – they’re here for you.