20 September 2026
GO! Southampton is proud to be working with partners on the return of the night-time welfare bus. A team of volunteers will be on hand to provide help from a multi-purpose van parked outside The Giddy Bridge pub on London Road, between 11pm and 4.30am.
The van will be a designated ‘Safe Place’ – a temporary refuge for individuals who may feel unsafe. It can also be used as a pick-up space for taxis, parents and friends. People will be able to charge their phones so that they can call home. The service has launched in time for Freshers’ Fortnight, when students move to the city to begin their university studies.
The welfare bus has been spearheaded by ‘Operation Defender ‘, a multi-agency response to keep people safe as they enjoy the city’s nightlife. Operation Defender members include GO! Southampton’s Business Crime Partnership, Southampton City Council, Hampshire Constabulary, the University of Southampton, Southampton Solent University, street pastors, CityWatch, private security firms and more.
For the fourth consecutive year, Southampton has maintained its Purple Flag status organised by GO! Southampton. This national accreditation highlights the city’s efforts to ensure people’s safety while they enjoy the night-time economy.
Jade McCauley-Deehan, Operations Manager at GO! Southampton, said: “GO! Southampton is proud to be supporting partners with this night-time economy welfare initiative. As a city, we’ve maintained our Purple Flag accreditation thanks to projects such as this. This van proves that we are committed to creating a night-time economy where everyone can enjoy themselves in safety.”
Councillor Sarah Bogle, Leader of Southampton City Council, said: “It’s great that the night-time service is back for a second year as we welcome students to the city. This van will provide people with a safe place while they’re out for the night. It will also reassure families across the country that their sons and daughters can enjoy Southampton’s night life in safety. Thank you to all our partners for helping us to make this project a reality.”
Professor Jane Falkingham, Vice President Engagement and International at the University of Southampton, said: “We are pleased to be working with Southampton City Council, Operation Defender and our wider city partners on this important initiative. As a civic university, we are committed to Southampton and to collaborating with others to help create a city where people can live, study, work and socialise safely and confidently.
Supporting the wellbeing of our students, staff and local communities is a shared responsibility, and this partnership highlights the positive impact that can be achieved when organisations work together. Creating a safer, more welcoming and inclusive Southampton is a priority for the University, and we are proud to contribute to the city’s continued success.”