A SCHEME has been launched to help door staff identify vulnerable people on a night out.

Durham Police are piloting the training in Bishop Auckland and over the last few months, officers have been working with staff, licensees and Pubwatch to help make the town safer and more attractive.

The course was originally set up in Newcastle city centre by Northumbria Police and it has been adapted to suit County Durham.

One of the measures being put in place is a training course for all the door staff in the town helping them identify people who might be vulnerable and what steps they can take in response.

Threats to those classed as vulnerable include the risk of physical or sexual assault, or being the victim of theft as well as accidental injuries.

Each session lasts two hours and provides practical help and support on how to reduce the risk to those who are, or may become vulnerable.

Acting Sergeant Graeme Morgan, of Durham Police, said: “As we head into the festive period we want people to know we will not tolerate anti-social behaviour or anything which puts safety at risk.

“By working alongside the licensed trade we can all play a part in making the town an enjoyable place to socialise.

“The south Durham area as a whole is a safe place to visit and we want to work with our partners to improve this still further.”

A training package for police officers, again developed initially in the Northumbria area is also being trialled by Durham Police, starting with the five response shifts in Bishop Auckland.

This will be evaluated by the force’s Alcohol Harm Reduction Unit before any decision to roll it out across other parts of South Durham – mainly Crook, Spennymoor and Barnard Castle - and then the rest of the force area.

Acting Sgt Morgan is also leading other initiatives such as regular meetings with door staff covering pubs and bars across south Durham to discuss any outstanding issues.