TEAMS of marshals are taking to the streets of Brighton and Hove three nights a week as part of the city’s first ever Street Wise scheme.

The project has been initiated by the University of Sussex, supported by the University of Brighton and BIMM Brighton music college.

The scheme, piloted earlier this year, aims to promote a supportive and reassuring environment for students and other members of the public travelling through Brighton and Hove on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday nights.

Pairs of marshals walk around designated areas of the city between 10pm and 4am and offer safety advice and assistance.

The marshals, who patrol in three mixed gender groups, are accredited through the Community Safety Accreditation scheme and approved by Sussex Police.

The project was developed in consultation with Brighton and Hove City Council and the Students’ Union at both universities.

“I am really pleased that the University of Sussex is leading on this important initiative” said councillor Emma Daniel, chairwoman of the neighbourhoods, inclusion, communities and equalities committee at Brighton and Hove City Council.

“Whether it’s through offering safety advice to people travelling through the city at night, or making sure people get home safely, the Street Wise scheme is a useful service not just for students but also for the wider community.”

The scheme is also designed to strengthen community relationships by encouraging responsible behaviour at night, particularly in residential areas.

Tim Westlake, from the University of Sussex, added: “Moving to a new city can be daunting for many students, who may be away from home for the first time.

“So we wanted to do everything we can to make sure they know how to navigate the city, especially on busy evenings.

“Through listening to residents we also felt our Street Marshals scheme would be important in promoting harmonious and long-lasting relationships within our community.”

Patrols take place every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday night during university term time.

The marshals patrol the Lewes Road, The Level, and London Road areas of the city.

The Street Wise team will be clearly identifiable in yellow high visibility vests displaying both the University of Sussex and Beacon Security Services logos and ‘Street Wise Marshal’ printed on both the front and back of the vest.

They have been selected for their professionalism, honesty, communication skills and approachability.