Plymouth has once again been awarded the Purple Flag accreditation for its evening and night time economy for the fifth year in a row.
The Purple Flag is an acknowledgement of exceptional standards and partnership working within the evening and night-time economy and recognises important aspects such as variety of services, culture, safety, wellbeing and partnership working.
The Purple Flag award was applied for by Safer Plymouth. Safer Plymouth is Plymouth’s community safety partnership which helps agencies to work together to improve the safety of our residents, while enjoying everything that Plymouth has to offer.
Plymouth was the first city in the UK to have an anti-drink spiking scheme which has now developed force-wide and nationally. The close relationship between the partners and the trade has enabled many training sessions to further upskill evening and night-time economy staff to help support people on a night out.
Regular medical and welfare support on a number of evenings supplied by the Street Pastors and Plymouth Night Patrol, as well as the newly commissioned Safe Bus were noted during the assessment and the tight partnership working with the various partners in the city and the trade were key to the awarding of the Purple Flag accreditation.
Councillor Sally Haydon, Cabinet Member for Community Safety, said “We are delighted that the city has been awarded the Purple Flag accreditation for another year and to be recognised for the initiatives that we have in the city is fantastic news.
“Plymouth is one of only 100 towns and cities worldwide which has this accreditation, and it serves as a sign to those living in the city or those wishing to visit or study here that every effort is made to make sure that people going out in the evening have a great and safe time.”
Cat MacDonald, Coordinator for Best Bar None Plymouth and the Plymouth Purple Flag, said: “Plymouth’s success in achieving the Purple Flag accreditation, is a testament to the city's commitment to creating a safe and vibrant nightlife.
“Key to this accomplishment are Plymouth's pubs, bars, and clubs, particularly the Best Bar None accredited venues, which play a crucial role in promoting safer socialising. These establishments prioritise the well-being of their customers by implementing responsible alcohol service, well-trained staff, and initiatives designed to safeguard guests throughout the night. The Purple Flag award highlights how partnership working—between these venues, police, local authorities, Best Bar None, Pubwatch and others —has transformed Plymouth into a city that not only welcomes visitors but ensures they have a safe and enjoyable experience.
“This recognition positions Plymouth as a diverse and secure destination for night-time entertainment, where people of all ages can feel confident visiting, knowing that their safety and well-being are a top priority. The Purple Flag status is proof of Plymouth's unified effort to create a thriving and safe nightlife that benefits both locals and visitors alike.”