Street Angels are volunteers who help people, whoever they are and whatever their situation, on the streets of many towns in the UK during the evenings. Those in need assisted by street angels include the homeless, those under intoxication, suffering the effects of drug abuse, assault or any other issue which has caused personal distress or the potential for physical harm. Assistance is provided in the form of listening, caring, offering practical help or by referring people to specialist agencies who can help them. A Street Angel must be over 18, CRB checked, interviewed and trained.
The Christian Nightlife Initiatives Network was launched in July 2008 to help support, resource and promote local street patrol projects.
Street Angels are often part of the Churches Together organisation.
Street Angel programmes have been starting across the UK over the last several years. They have a positive impact on crime and antisocial behaviour in town centres by providing a calming presence on the streets late at night.
The projects are supported and partnered by a wide range of agencies, including neighbourhood police and local councils.