Plymouth’s ‘Spooktacular’ Safe Bus ready to keep Halloween revellers safe

The team behind Plymouth’s much-loved Safe Bus are preparing for a busy Halloween weekend — promising no tricks, just treatments for anyone in need of help while out celebrating in the city.

Usually stationed at Derry’s Cross on Saturday nights from 10pm to 4am, the bright green mobile treatment centre will also be available tonight (Friday 31st) to ensure 31 October doesn’t turn into a “fright night” for partygoers.

Run by Devon & Cornwall Police alongside local partners, the Safe Bus provides a crucial service for anyone who becomes unwell, injured, or feels vulnerable while on a night out. Staffed by Western Medical Services and supported by volunteers from Plymouth City Pastors, the team offer first aid, water, phone charging, and advice on drink spiking and other safety issues.

The bus will also return throughout the festive season, operating on Friday 5, 12 and 19 December, as well as Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve.

Local PC Deb Hart said:

“We are pleased that people enjoying a night out in Plymouth can be reassured that the Safe Bus is available for even more dates over the party season. This is fantastic news as the Safe Bus team has helped protect and advise hundreds of people on nights out over the last few years. Around 90% of individuals treated on board the bus are discharged at the scene by medical staff, reducing pressure on police, ambulance, and hospital services.

“Plymouth Citybus ensures the upkeep and reliability of the vehicle, consistently providing drivers to transport it to and from its location. We are very grateful to them for their dedication and commitment.”

The Safe Bus can be found at bus stop DC2 at Derry’s Cross roundabout, outside Timbervault Escape Rooms. It serves as a safe haven for anyone in need, or a meeting point for separated friends during a night out.

The initiative is one of the key reasons Plymouth has retained its national Purple Flag status for the sixth consecutive year — an award recognising cities that offer a safe and vibrant night-time economy.

Police work closely with organisations such as Best Bar None and Plymouth City Council to uphold these standards. Licensed venues accredited under Best Bar None are recognised for their excellence in safety and customer care and support schemes like Ask Angela, which allows anyone feeling unsafe to discreetly seek help from trained bar staff.

Chief Superintendent Matt Longman, Plymouth Police Commander, said:

“We are delighted that police and partners have once again been recognised for our efforts to keep people safe on nights out. Our officers are out and about to help others and prevent as well as detect crime. We confiscate illegal drugs where possible, stop any incidents escalating and make sure residents and visitors can have a good time in the city without any worry. Congratulations to everyone who works so hard to make the city a great place to be as we once again celebrate flying the Purple Flag.”

Plymouth is one of only eight UK areas to achieve full Purple Flag accreditation in 2025.

The Safe Bus initiative is supported by a coalition of local partners, including Plymouth City Council, University of Plymouth, Safer Streets 4, Victim Support, Western Medical Services, Best Bar None, and the NHS. The Devon and Cornwall Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) has contributed £10,000 this year toward its running costs.

For Halloween and beyond, Plymouth’s Safe Bus will continue to ensure the city’s nights out remain safe, supportive and spooktacularly fun.