Peter Cluff, the High Sheriff of Surrey, recently joined a Street Angels shift in Guildford to experience firsthand the work carried out by volunteers late on a Friday night. In his blog post, he reflects on the evening spent patrolling the town centre alongside the Street Angels team and witnessing the challenges and needs that arise after dark.
Overall, he describes the shift as an eye-opening insight into the dedication, compassion and quiet effectiveness of our volunteers who work each weekend to support Guildford’s night-time community.
My Night as a Street Angel
Having lived in Guildford for over 25 years I have been aware of the wonderful Street Angels and the part they have played keeping people safe and with their presence helping to prevent incidents from occurring. Last night Suzanne and I joined them on their patrol. They go out every Friday and Saturday night from 10.30pm to 4am in two patrols of two or three volunteers, covering all areas from the station up to G-Live checking in with the pubs and clubs and looking out for people who may need assistance.
Friday night was especially busy with many people coming into town from the Oktoberfest event in Stoke Park. A number of friendly greetings and words of thanks from people out enjoying themselves demonstrated the respect the Street Angels have and a recognition of the good work they do especially towards the end of the night as people start heading home.
I learned that lollipops defuse a lot of aggressive or emotional situations, everyone likes being offered a lollipop and also offering flip flops to young ladies who have removed their painful heels is especially welcome. It was sad to record that there were five people we came across sleeping rough but the Street Angels offer them blankets if they do not want other support.
Everyone is a volunteer and the Street Angels are always on the lookout for more volunteers. The commitment is to be available one Friday or Saturday a month after having undergone some training sessions. It is very rewarding when you know you have helped someone and frequently letters or social media posts praise the Street Angels for their interventions. The camaraderie is great and McDonalds even offer you free food!
If you would like to enquire about volunteering, please email streetangels@gtcc.org.uk or call 07717 876853
Photo from left to right – me, Tony, Sharon, Susanna, Suzanne and team leader Jo.
