Community Street Ambassadors initiative to be launched

Published Thursday, 2nd July 2020

A new team of Community Street Ambassadors will begin operating in Hartlepool from tomorrow to provide a reassuring presence to residents and visitors.

The Ambassadors aim to offer a “friendly face” as the COVID-19 lockdown continues to ease.

They will work in various areas to positively promote safety measures, share local messages and provide advice and support as needed

The launch of the new initiative by Hartlepool Borough Council comes ahead of a further easing of lockdown restrictions which means that a range of businesses, including pubs, restaurants and cafes, will be able to re-open from Saturday (July 4th)

They will be deployed to areas of particular need, including Seaton Carew, priority town centre locations, open spaces and parks.

They will, for example, be on hand to safely guide people through one-way systems introduced in some shopping areas and car parks.

Councillor Shane Moore, Leader of the Council, said: “The Ambassadors will play a vital role in supporting and encouraging business owners, residents and visitors to stay safe.

“We understand the easing of lockdown restrictions may lead to uncertainty and anxiety for some people, and this initiative aims to reduce that.”

Gemma Ptak, Assistant Director – Preventative and Community Based Services, added: “The Ambassadors will be a physical presence on the ground and they will be able to communicate with the public and businesses to increase confidence and provide reassurance.

“They will be out there on the streets to help and we would urge people to co-operate with them to ensure that the easing of lockdown restrictions is managed in a safe and effective way.”