Street Pastors Finally Take to the Streets

On a cold and frosty December evening last year, at the height of the festive season, fourteen brand-new Street Pastors from eight church fellowships stepped out onto the streets of central Croydon for their first- ever tour of duty and the Croydon Street Pastors initiative was officially launched on the streets of Croydon. 

They were greeted at Taberner House by Steve O’Connell, the Deputy Leader of Croydon Council and the Acting Superintendent from Croydon Police, both of whom spoke warmly of their appreciation of the work that the Street Pastors will be doing among the young people out in Croydon on a Friday night.

Peter Bailey, one of the new team leaders, reports: “Before we set out we had been both apprehensive and excited about our new responsibility. But on the night the team had a great time chatting to clubbers, greeting doormen and generally sharing the hope that the Christmas story brings with those out enjoying the festivities…”

Since the launch, Street Pastors have been out every Friday night in Croydon from 10pm until 1am, whatever the weather. On a typical Friday evening the Street Pastors may have to deal with a variety of circumstances – amongst some of the experiences to date are administering first aid to a man who had slashed his arm; helping an 11 year old girl who had become separated from her parents whilst out for the evening; chatting with clubbers queuing outside clubs; befriending the homeless people and generally encouraging the young people enjoying Croydon’s nightlife to have a safe and trouble-free evening.

“Generally the clubbers and pub-goers are welcoming and appreciative of our presence, and many relationships are being built with the doormen, and with owners of late night takeaway food shops. We are also beginning to make contact with the club owners.”

Anyone with a passion for their community, a love of people and a desire to serve the Lord on the streets of Croydon would make a good Street Pastor.

(Photos to follow shortly)