Not particularly interesting, although a few specific remarks about taxis etc, rather than just the PR-style blather.
But, as is often the case, if an alien landed from Mars they'd be forgiven for thinking that this is all there is for keeping 'vulnerable' people safe from 'fear, threats, intimidation' or if they're a 'victim of crime'. And this is who keep order on the ranks and look out for 'unlicensed taxis'.
No mention at all of the p-word (except right at the end)
Taxi marshals deployed in Darlington over festive season to keep clubbers safe
https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/whats-on/ ... r-25717407
They'll be there to stop queue jumpers, and direct people who may feel unsafe
Councillor Mike Renton, Jay Graham and Jordan Denton of G&A Security at the Grange Road taxi rank (Image: Darlington Borough Council/Gazette Live)
Taxi marshals will be on hand in Darlington over the festive period to keep clubbers safe.
Grange Road taxi rank in Darlington has been used by the council as a hub for taxi marshals as they help to support the drivers, and the nighttime revellers waiting for taxis home. On Friday and Saturday nights it is the marshals' job to help maintain an orderly queue.
The Safer Streets initiative has put together some handy hints to ensure everyone can have a safe, yet good, time by planning ahead. These tips include pre-booking a taxi, making sure your phone is charged and looking out for your friends.
Councillor Mike Renton, a cabinet member for stronger communities, said: "While the vast majority of people waiting for a taxi will do so in an orderly manner, there are still those who think it is acceptable to jump the queue ahead of others who have waited patiently.
"We are supporting the taxi marshals with updated vulnerability awareness training and encouraging close links with Number Forty, in nearby Skinnergate. This is a safe place for people who feel vulnerable through fear, threats, intimidation or a victim of crime to call in for a chat with the volunteers."
He added: "People need to be patient while waiting for a taxi and not be tempted to jump the queue, which can often create disturbances. When this happens, taxi drivers are discouraged from going to the rank, which will only make the wait longer.
"We'd also suggest perhaps heading home earlier to beat the queues and perhaps keep some cash to pay for your taxi as not all are able to take payment by card."
Jordan Denton, from G&A security, said: "We try hard to keep order on the rank and ensure taxis only pick up at the head of the queue, but we have no control over the number of taxis available. We are also there to help vulnerable people who might otherwise choose to seek other methods of getting home and we are constantly on the lookout for unlicensed taxis. When they are seen, the police are alerted."
