Building safer Bristol: From local voices to specialist support

Posted on 10 Dec 2025, at 10:58 in Announcements

(L to R) Gemma Halliwell, CEO The Greenhouse, PCC Clare Moody, Esther Bonfield, OPCC and Megan Andrews from the Greenhouse

Last Friday (December 5), I spent the day in Bristol meeting residents, businesses, and visiting a specialist service supporting survivors of childhood sexual abuse. It was a powerful reminder of why listening, partnership, and action matter for safer communities.

Empowering voices: Bristol Somali Resource Centre AGM

The day began at the Bristol Somali Resource Centre (BSRC) Annual General Meeting in Barton Hill. The event brought together councillors, voluntary organisations, police, and community members—all committed to cohesion and support.

BSRC is a lifeline for socially and economically disadvantaged families, offering housing advice, employment support, and community services. Last year alone, they helped 2,382 people, including 623 with housing issues and 670 with employment advice, securing jobs for 260 individuals.

Young people in Lawrence Hill shared pride in their culture but raised concerns about safety and discrimination. These voices matter. Every resident deserves to feel safe and respected, and trust in policing is key to building stronger communities.

Partnering with Bristol BID

Next, I joined a roundtable with Bristol Business Improvement District (BID), police, and councillors at Cabot Circus. We discussed rising antisocial behaviour, retail theft, and the growing number of vulnerable people impacting business confidence.

BID’s partnership with local policing is making a difference, but more visibility and evening support are needed. Together, we’re funding some of the initiatives such as:

BID Street Rangers

Detached Youth Work (including late-night outreach)

Knife crime education programmes for at-risk young people.

These collaborations are vital for safer streets and a thriving city centre.

Supporting survivors: visit to The Greenhouse

I ended the day at The Greenhouse, a specialist service for children and families affected by sexual abuse. Their creative, evidence-based approach—often outdoors and nature-based—helps survivors heal and rebuild trust.

Funding remains a challenge, with growing waiting lists and limited specialist support. My office continues to provide funding through the Sexual Violence Therapies Alliance, but long-term stability is essential.

Looking ahead

From community halls to city centres and specialist services, one message is clear: partnership works. By listening to local voices and supporting those most in need, we can build a safer, stronger Bristol for everyone.