Street Pastors
2009 saw the launch of an exciting new initiative based at Bethesda: The Haverfordwest Street Pastors
Street Pastors is an international multi-denominational movement that was pioneered in London in 2003 and has seen some remarkable results, including a significant drop in crime in many areas.
The project was set up by the Ascension Trust and run by local coordinators with support from a number of local agencies. The Pastors are volunteers trained to care for others, especially young people, who find themselves in need of help or assistance in the town centre late at night. This can include something as simple as providing a bottle of water, a warm blanket or a safe taxi ride home.
There are currently 22 Street Pastors in Pembrokeshire, who have received training on topics such as drug and alcohol awareness and conflict resolution. Funding to deliver this training has been provided from a number of local sources, including Safer Pembrokeshire and various local churches.
The Street Pastors are available on Saturday nights in Haverfordwest, between the hours of 9pm and 3am. They wear a distinctive uniform with reflective wording to ensure they are clearly identifiable.