Street Angels impacts volunteers and the community in Birkenhead
An independent study from the University of Chester has revealed the Street Angels Birkenhead project brings strong community impact to the public and to those volunteering.
Street Angels Birkenhead was launched in December 2024 by Hitched Communities. It involves local volunteers walking the streets of Birkenhead on weekend nights to offer emotional and practical support to anyone that needs and wants it - whether it’s offering water and first-aid assistance or signposting vulnerable individuals to specialist services. The priority is creating a safer environment at night.
Using a mix of interviews, nightly shift reports, and observations, Dr Simone Benhafsi from the University of Chester produced a comprehensive overview of the programme’s operation and its impact on Birkenhead’s weekend night-time economy.
The evaluation highlights the benefits of partnership working with local businesses, police, and faith communities, building trust, safety and collaboration through community-led action.
Feedback from both volunteers and stakeholders also reflects high satisfaction, with volunteers feeling valued and confident in their roles.
One volunteer said: “Street Angels is important, it adds value to Birkenhead”. Another added: “If people want us then we’ll be there."
Simone's report not only confirms that the project is operating well - it also provides clear, evidence-based recommendations to enhance the long-term future of the project.
“The evaluation highlights the vital role Street Angels play in providing both practical and emotional front-line support,” said Simone. “With enhanced hours and funding, this model has the potential to become a long‑term asset to Birkenhead’s community safety framework.”
Gary Wootten, Director of Hitched Communities, and project lead, said: “The people of Birkenhead have been really supportive of the project. Volunteers are also benefiting by feeling more connected to the community, helping people in need, making new friends and keeping fit. We now hope to offer earlier shifts on Fridays and align shifts with key local events.”
He added: “We also look forward to deepening collaboration with the police, licensing teams, night-time economy venues, and the faith community.”
The charity now hopes to expand the volunteer pool and develop shift leaders to enable more shifts.
If you would like to volunteer please get in touch via www.streetangelsbirkenhead.org.uk