We've launched a new safety initiative to coincide with ‘Freshers Week’, which will see bars and clubs in Durham welcome thousands of new students to the city. Developed in partnership with Durham County Council and Dynamite Pink Floor Staff Agency, ‘Operation Hydrate’ aims to utilise floor sales staff – commonly known as ‘shot girls’ - to identify people who are at risk of being adversely affected by too much alcohol. The staff, who have received additional safety training to identify those at risk, will offer those people free cans of water and encourage them to take a break from the alcohol and to rehydrate. The cans also feature a QR code directing users to the Safe Durham website, which outlines helpful safety tips such as directions to the Durham City Safety Hub and Durham Street Friends. Inspector Dave Clarke, of Durham City Neighbourhood Police Team, said: “The increased footfall during Freshers Week inevitably results in more instances of people needing support, and our aim is to provide that assistance before they get so intoxicated that they become vulnerable. “Often people have had just a little bit too much to drink but aren’t ready to end their night, so a short break to drink some water can be enough of an intervention to reduce the chances of them getting into any sort of trouble.” A six-week pilot of the scheme received very positive feedback, including from one young girl who had been left alone whilst drunk and was grateful to the staff who offered water and stayed with her while waiting for a taxi. One rowdy group were at risk of being asked to leave the premises, and would only accept a water break on the condition that it was from a can so that they knew it hadn’t been tampered with. Elizabeth Mason, Director of Dynamite Pink, said: “The floor sales staff are often the first line of defence as they’re in amongst the crowds, develop a rapport with customers, and can spot the signs of heavy intoxication and vulnerability. “They’re the first ones to see the beginning of a domestic argument, anti-social or predatory behaviour, and can intervene when necessary.” So far fifteen bars and clubs in Durham City have signed up to the project, and 7,500 cans of water have been made available. Ashleigh White, Community Safety and Engagement Officer for Durham Constabulary, said: “Operation Hydrate is a great example of partners working together to keep people safe. “Not only are we safeguarding people who want to have a good time, but in doing so we can also protect valuable emergency service resources during what can be a period of increased demand.” For more information on safety services in Durham City, including the Safety Hub and Street Friends, visit SafeDurham.com.

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