A £20,000 funding boost has been awarded to support the work of town pastors and keep people safe on nights out.
The funding has been approved by Tim Passmore, police and crime commissioner for Suffolk, to back the efforts of trained town pastor volunteers who offer care and support to vulnerable individuals during the evening.
Mr Passmore said: "Town Pastors make a remarkable contribution to keeping our communities safe.
"These volunteers give up their own time to provide practical help as well as reassurance and support to those people who may be vulnerable or in need of assistance during a night out.
"They are often the reassuring face people need at the right moment, helping to prevent situations from escalating as well as ensuring individuals can get home safely.
"Their work complements that of the police and other emergency services and I am delighted to provide this funding to support and strengthen their efforts across Suffolk."
The scheme aims to ease pressure on emergency services, improve safety and prevent crime.
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Town Pastors chair Neil Winton welcomed the funding.
Mr Winton said: "We are extremely grateful for this funding, which will help us continue supporting people in our town centres and night-time economy.
"Our volunteers are deeply committed to serving their communities and this investment will help ensure we can continue making a positive difference."
The funding is part of the commissioner’s commitment to voluntary and community groups working to prevent crime and improve safety across Suffolk.
The pastors have operated in Suffolk for 11 years and now patrol 10 towns, mainly on weekend nights, as well as special events including Latitude Festival.
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