York’s exciting nighttime economy is at the heart of its community, drawing residents and visitors alike to its bustling streets. However, recent reports of disrespectful behaviour have prompted the launch of a new campaign, ‘Choose Respect, Not Regrets’.
Spearheaded by York BID and its partners, this initiative is a part of the Purple Flag programme and aims to foster a respectful and safe environment throughout the city.
The Need for Behavioural Change
The ‘Choose Respect, Not Regrets’ campaign was developed in response to an increase in hate crimes directed at hospitality staff. This alarming trend highlighted a pressing need for a cultural shift towards more respectful conduct.
The campaign encourages those enjoying York’s nightlife to be mindful of their actions and their impact on residents, businesses, and fellow visitors. By employing a consistent and visually engaging message, the campaign seeks to instill a sense of responsibility and respect.
Collaborative Efforts for a Safer York
The campaign’s launch brought together a diverse group of stakeholders committed to enhancing the city’s nighttime environment. Representatives from York BID, Street Cleaners, Street Rangers, Marshals, Eboracum, City of York Council, North Yorkshire Police, British Transport Police, Make It York, York Rescue Boat, and Street Angels joined forces to promote the campaign’s core messages.
Key Themes and Messaging
The campaign covers a range of themes crucial for maintaining a pleasant and safe atmosphere in York:
- Anti-littering: Encouraging proper disposal of waste to keep the city clean.
- Respectful Language: Promoting the use of kind and considerate language.
- Moderate Drinking: Advocating for responsible alcohol consumption.
- River Safety: Highlighting the importance of safety around York’s waterways.
- Rail Travel: Ensuring courteous behaviour on public transport.
- Public Urination: Discouraging inappropriate use of public spaces.
- Street Noise: Urging residents and visitors to keep noise levels down at night.
These messages are strategically placed on shop wraps, bollards, planters, cigarette bins, adverts, buses, and toilets, creating a city-wide visual reinforcement of the campaign’s values.
York’s Purple Flag Accreditation
York has recently been reaccredited with the prestigious Purple Flag designation by the Association of Town and City Management (ATCM). This accolade recognizes the city’s excellence in managing its evening and nighttime economy, ensuring a safe and vibrant environment for all. Since late 2023, York BID has managed this accreditation, taking over from the City of York Council.
Leadership and Vision
Carl Alsop, Operations Manager at York BID, is at the forefront of this campaign. He emphasizes the importance of respectful behaviour in maintaining York’s unique and diverse nighttime economy. According to Alsop, the campaign is designed to enhance the city’s attractiveness and ensure that everyone, from residents to visitors, can enjoy a safe and inviting experience.
“We want everyone to have a safe and inviting experience in the city,” says Alsop. “This campaign is a part of a much larger effort to promote safety and respect for all.”
Support from City Leaders
Councillor Peter Kilbane, Deputy Leader of the Council and Executive Member for Economy and Culture at City of York Council, has expressed strong support for the campaign. He acknowledges the crucial role played by hospitality, transport, and security workers in maintaining a safe nighttime environment and calls on everyone to show them kindness and respect.
“The city’s hospitality, transport, and security workers spend their evenings looking after us,” says Kilbane. “We call on everyone to show them nothing but kindness and respect.”
About the York BID
The York BID (Business Improvement District) is dedicated to supporting businesses in the city. Its focus areas include enhancing the city centre environment, promoting a vibrant programme of events, and investing in the development and promotion of the BID area and its businesses.
About Purple Flag
Purple Flag is an international accreditation from the Association of Town and City Management (ATCM) that recognizes excellence in managing the evening and nighttime economy. Similar to the Blue Flag award for beaches, Purple Flag status is granted to town or city centres that meet high standards of safety, vibrancy, and management. York BID’s initiatives, including Colour & Light, Taxi Marshals, Street Rangers, and Street Cleansing, play a vital role in maintaining York’s Purple Flag status.
For more details on York’s Purple Flag accreditation, visit York BID’s Purple Flag page.
