Bath Spa University has renewed its sponsorship of the Bath Safe Bus, providing £10,000 to help the city centre service continue supporting people on nights out in Bath.
Photo courtesy of Bath BID
The initiative offers a safe space for anyone needing help while in the city on Friday and Saturday evenings, and has become a regular part of Bath’s nighttime economy since launching in 2023.
Run by the Bath Business Improvement District (Bath BID), the Safe Bus is based outside Orange Grove every Friday and Saturday from 10.30pm until 4am.
It provides a non-judgemental space for students and residents who may be lost, vulnerable or in need of support.
The multi-award-winning project is staffed by medical professionals, security, and volunteers from Suicide Prevention UK and the Bath City Pastors.
Alongside first aid and mental health support, it also offers tea, coffee, food, phone chargers, sexual health products, period products and spare clothing.
Bath Spa University said the sponsorship would help the service continue its work supporting students and the wider community, while also easing pressure on the NHS.
Senior Pro Vice-Chancellor Rebecca Schaaf said: “Our continued support for the Bath Safe Bus reflects BSU’s commitment to working as a civic partner to enhance safety, wellbeing, and inclusion across the city.
“By investing in initiatives like this, we are helping to create an environment where students can thrive, feel confident in their surroundings, and remain connected to a supportive network both on campus and in the wider community.”
The university has also supported awareness of the initiative through its annual Freshers’ Fair, where the Bath Safe Bus appears alongside Avon and Somerset Police and Operation Bluestone, which tackles sexual violence.
Students at the university have also played a role in promoting the project. Media Communications students Daisy Muchmore and Pippa Green worked with the Bath Safe Bus team to create a six-minute film highlighting the impact of the service, which is now featured on the initiative’s website.
Director of Campus Life Liz Eyles said: “The Bath Safe Bus plays a vital role in helping our students feel safe and supported while enjoying evenings in the city.
“Feeling safe is fundamental to a positive student experience, and with 32% of students telling us they feel safer knowing the Safe Bus is there, renewing our sponsorship was a priority.
“It also reflects our commitment to working with partners across Bath to create a welcoming and supportive nighttime environment for students and residents.”
Nick Bishop, Bath BID and Safe and Secure BCRP manager, welcomed the renewed support.
He said: “We are extremely grateful to Bath Spa University for their support and sponsorship of the Bath Safe Bus.
“Keeping students safe and ensuring they get home safely after enjoying Bath’s nightlife is at the heart of what we do, and it’s fantastic to see BSU recognise the value of this work.
“Their ongoing support allows us to continue providing a welcoming ‘safe space’ for anyone who needs it, ensuring they feel cared for before heading home or back to campus.”
