A remarkable charity group based in Stroud has earned rightful praise as a force of ‘heroes’ working tirelessly to keep vulnerable women safe throughout Gloucestershire.
Founded in December 2022 by domestic abuse survivor Chrissie Lowery, the Night Angels began as a local initiative to support women and girls during nights out and daytime activities in Stroud. Since then, the organization has grown to a network of around 70 women who patrol Stroud, Gloucester, and surrounding areas every Friday and Saturday night.
Equipped with first aid kits, anti-spiking tools, phone chargers, period supplies, blankets, and water, these dedicated volunteers patrol from 11pm to 4am. They also collaborate with police and local businesses to provide “Safe Spaces”—designated venues where women feeling unsafe can seek refuge. These Safe Spaces are available across Stroud, Gloucester, Cheltenham, Tewkesbury, and beyond.
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The Night Angels have extended their reach to transport systems too. Responding to a 177% rise in reported sexual harassment on trains, they partnered with Great Western Railway to patrol trains and launched a scheme with Stagecoach buses involving over 250 vehicles. Women who feel threatened can board participating buses to reach safety.
Last week, the Night Angels hosted an open day in Stroud, inviting local MPs, police officials, and Ministry of Justice officers to experience their work first-hand. Notable attendees included Stroud MP Dr Simon Opher, Gloucestershire Police Special Constabulary Chief Inspector Steve Lindsay, and Alex Davies-Jones, Parliamentary Undersecretary of State for Victims.
The visitors toured several Safe Spaces, including Curio Lounge and The Lord John pub, where volunteers demonstrated anti-spiking devices designed to protect drinks from tampering. Dr Opher participated in the demonstration, expressing his surprise at how common spiking can be and the importance of preventive measures.
Managers at Safe Space venues appreciate the Night Angels’ presence. Ryan Gingell, duty manager at The Lord John, said the volunteers are an essential part of their night-time security, helping to maintain calm and assist vulnerable patrons.
The community has embraced the volunteers, with many expressing heartfelt thanks when seeing them patrol in their high-visibility jackets. Chrissie Lowery shared her pride in the group’s impact and ambitions to roll out the Safe Space scheme nationally. Her long-term goal includes establishing a domestic violence refuge in Gloucestershire.
Local MP Dr Opher praised the organization’s commitment: “It’s fantastic to see voluntary groups working so closely with police and businesses to protect women.” Meanwhile, Alex Davies-Jones found the visit inspiring for her own work against violence towards women in Pontypridd.
The Night Angels exemplify how community spirit, collaboration, and dedicated volunteers can transform safety in public spaces—creating a stronger, kinder environment for women across Gloucestershire and beyond.