Staff from popular venue Arbeia, which is owned by the pop star, were among the first to take part
Jade Thirlwall’s South Shields bar has hosted vulnerability training in order to help keep people safe this winter. Staff from the popular venue Arbeia, which is owned by the pop star, were among the first to take part, alongside colleagues from nearby pubs, clubs and restaurants.
Northumbria Police’s Violence Reduction Unit delivered the training, with Police and Crime Commissioner Susan Dungworth also in attendance, as those working in the South Tyneside town were told how to spot risks and how to keep more people safe as a result.
The practical sessions give bar staff, door supervisors and club managers the skills to recognise signs of vulnerability, assess risk and step in to support someone when they are needed most. This marks the start of a programme of activity from the Violence Reduction Unit over the winter months, in a coordinated effort to raise awareness, prevent violence and build safer, stronger communities.
The planned activity includes:
- Taxi marshals, extra visible patrols and youth diversionary activities funded through the Seasonal Violence Fund, ensuring resources are directed where they are needed most.
- Online awareness sessions on topics including knife crime, joint enterprise, gangs and youth violence, and hidden harms – building a growing network of nearly 300 Violence Prevention Ambassadors, one year on from the programme’s launch.
- Providing education in schools and community settings, helping young people understand the impact and consequences of split-second decisions, giving them the knowledge and confidence to keep themselves and others safe.
- Delivering targeted interventions to address the behaviour of those causing the most harm in communities, alongside key services.
The aim of these initiatives is to highlight the ongoing commitment of the Violence Reduction Unit and partners in reducing violence, protecting vulnerable people, and keeping communities safe this winter and beyond.
Backing the training, former Little Mix singer Jade Thirlwall said: “We’re really proud that Arbeia was one of the first venues to take part in this important training. Creating a safe and welcoming environment for everyone who comes through our doors has always been a top priority for us.
Arbeia Bar on Ocean Road in South Shields(Image: Chronicle Live)
“The ‘How Safe Are We?’ sessions give our team the confidence to spot when someone might need help and to step in in the right way. As part of the South Shields community, we all have a role to play in looking out for each other, especially during the busy winter months.
“It’s amazing to see local venues, the Violence Reduction Unit and Northumbria Police working together to keep people safe and make our town centre somewhere everyone can enjoy.”
Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Susan Dungworth, also said: “When I introduced my Police and Crime Plan earlier this year, I set out six key priorities that residents told me where important to them. And at the heart of it all was making sure you feel safe, such as when out in public places.
“The How Safe Are We? training is a fantastic example of how we can empower those working on the frontline of our night-time economy to recognise when someone may be vulnerable and step in to offer support. Keeping people safe isn’t just about enforcement, it’s about prevention, education and working closely with a range of services.
“Through our Violence Reduction Unit, we’re bringing partners together from police, schools, businesses, youth services and community groups, to tackle the root causes of violence, and make a long and lasting difference.
“This winter, our message is clear: whether you’re out enjoying the festivities or working in our wonderful towns and cities, we all have a role to play in preventing harm, and building safer, stronger communities for everyone.”
Northumbria PCC Susan Dungworth during a safety awareness training day at Arbeia Bar in South Shields(Image: Chronicle Live)
Chief Superintendent Aelf Sampson, Area Commander for South Tyneside, added: “Our region is renowned for having a vibrant and welcoming nightlife, where those who live here and visit can enjoy a safe night out. We work collaboratively with our partners every day to ensure it stays that way, and that often involves supporting businesses operating in our busy night time economy and their frontline staff.
“One way we can enhance our collective response to keeping people safe is through specialist training, and I’m pleased we’ve been able to extend the offering to this event which is being hosted by the Arbeia Bar.
“This training across our licenced premises will support staff in identifying those who may be vulnerable in these venues, and the impact that alcohol and substances can have on a person, as well as what the appropriate next steps might look like. We also run dedicated operations year-round, as well as plain clothed and uniform patrol activity, so we can identify pockets of disorder and help those in need.
“Please remember that if you do need us, we are here for you, and a helping hand will also be available through the bar staff you interact with too.”
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