Have Your Say: What Makes You Feel Safe at Night?
The Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner has launched a public survey to better understand what helps people feel safe when out at night in their communities—and what more can be done by partners to improve that sense of safety.
The Safer Nights Survey is an opportunity for residents to share their experiences, concerns, and priorities around nighttime safety, from street lighting and police visibility to transport options and community support.
This is the second Safer Nights Survey launched by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner, building on previous work to understand and address the factors that influence how safe people feel after dark.
Insights from the first survey have already helped shape local safety initiatives, and this re-launch aims to ensure continued progress helps shape future action.
Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson said: “Everyone deserves to feel safe when they’re out at night—whether heading home from work, meeting friends, or enjoying local nightlife.
“This second Safer Nights Survey reflects our continued commitment to listening to our communities and taking meaningful action. By working together, we can build a safer, more vibrant night-time economy where people feel confident and protected.
“I’m urging residents to take part and help shape the future of nighttime safety across our region.”
The survey has already received responses from young people attending fresher fayre events across the county over the past week and now we want to hear from the wider community on what makes them feel safe and unsafe when they’re using public spaces at night.
Councillor Jim Grant, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities and Partnerships, said, “The 2024 Swindon Resident Survey made it clear that feeling safe after dark is a top priority for our community.
“The Safer Nights survey gives local residents a vital opportunity to share their experiences and help shape how we address crime and anti-social behaviour. It’s part of our ongoing commitment to working collaboratively with partners and residents to build a safer Swindon for all.”
Cllr Ian Thorn, Leader of Wiltshire Council, said: “Listening to the community is a key priority for us and the Community Safety Partnership. This survey will provide valuable insight and feedback and I encourage people to take the time to contribute.
“We have already drawn on the feedback shared by the OPCC to think about how we deliver services that make people feel safe at night through consultations across our council services ranging from our communities’ teams, Anti-Social Behaviour Reduction Officers, Licencing and more.
“This shared commitment ensures we work together effectively to make the people of Wiltshire safer and feel safe.”
The survey is open to all members of the public for the next four weeks and takes just two minutes to complete on average. Responses will be used to inform future campaigns, funding opportunities, policing strategies, and community initiatives.
