A new night-time safety hub in Romford for women and girls has launched.

Police, with support from Romford Business Improvement District and Havering Council, set up the initiative to assist those affected by violence, abuse, or threatening behaviour.

The hub, in South Street, aims to enhance safety, provide support, and gather data to improve the night-time experience.

The project aims to improve safety for women and girls in Romford (Image: SANDRA ROWSE)

Sergeant Abed Alaziz, from the Romford town centre policing team, said: "Our aim is to enhance safety for all women and girls visiting the town centre during the evenings and by providing this multi-agency hub, we hope we can not only address night-time safety concerns but also provide a supportive environment."

The hub will be manned by uniformed and plain-clothed officers, providing a high-visibility presence and looking out for potential perpetrators.

Partners involved in the scheme (Image: SANDRA ROWSE)

Sgt Alaziz added: "We do not tolerate intimidating behaviour or unwanted attention to women and girls and we want to encourage people to come forward and report crimes to us in confidence.

"This facility will allow us to provide a better victim service, with police officers being there at key times and dates to listen to concerns from those feeling vulnerable."

The hub will offer support, crime prevention advice, and provide bottled water, clean clothes, and footwear to those in need.

High-visibility patrols will be conducted throughout evenings, with officers working alongside street pastors, licensed venues, women's aid charities, and the council.

Romford BID expressed its commitment to the initiative.

A Met Police safety point in South Street (Image: SANDRA ROWSE)

Its director Julie Frost said: "The Romford BID is very pleased to be working with the Romford town centre police team on their latest violence against women and girls initiative.

"As an organisation, we are keen to do all we can to ensure that Romford town centre is a place where residents and visitors can feel safe and secure, whatever time of the day or night."

The hub, which launched on November 23, will also serve as a platform for the community safety teams and police to gather information from anyone who has experienced any form of anti-social behaviour, crime, or has other concerns.