The Kingston Street Pastors are trained volunteers from local churches who patrol the town centre every Friday and Saturday night, along with two additional Friday afternoon shifts each month
Kingston’s lively nightlife scene is getting a compassionate boost, thanks to a dedicated team of volunteers who walk the town’s streets each weekend, offering support, safety, and a reassuring presence to those in need.
The Kingston Street Pastors are trained volunteers from local churches who patrol the town centre every Friday and Saturday night, along with two additional Friday afternoon shifts each month. Their work centres on care and connection—offering everything from bottled water, flip-flops, and space blankets to emotional support and first aid. Whether someone is lost, in distress, or simply needs a listening ear, the Street Pastors are there to help.
Their efforts go beyond lending a hand—they’re also building a safer, more supportive nightlife culture in Kingston. In partnership with PRYZM Kingston, the Street Pastors are helping to deliver the Behave Or Be Barred (BOBB) scheme. This initiative aims to reduce anti-social behaviour and prevent repeat offences by offering a second chance to those who cross the line. Under BOBB, individuals barred for violent or disruptive behaviour can choose to spend a night on patrol with the Street Pastors. It’s a form of restorative justice designed to show offenders the human impact of their actions, and it offers a rare opportunity to reflect, reset, and reintegrate.
Stephan Currie, manager of PRYZM Kingston, credits the scheme and the Street Pastors with making a meaningful difference to Kingston’s night-time economy.
“I’ve worked in Kingston for eight years and saw early on how valuable the Street Pastors are. They’re another set of eyes looking out for our guests, stepping in when help is needed. Their presence brings a sense of safety and calm,” he said.
Street Pastors’ work centres on care and connection—offering everything from bottled water, flip-flops, and space blankets to emotional support and first aid. Whether someone is lost, in distress, or simply needs a listening ear, the Street Pastors are there to help
Commenting on the BOBB scheme, Currie added: “I’ve never had to ban anyone twice who has completed a night with the Street Pastors. It opens up a dialogue and helps guests understand the reasons behind our decisions. It shows them the human side.”
From handing out blankets to offering second chances, the Kingston Street Pastors are a reminder that a little kindness can go a long way—even in the busiest hours of the night. Through practical care and compassionate engagement, they continue to be a quiet but powerful force for good in the borough.
Kingston 2025 Cultural Festival
As excitement builds for Kingston 2025, the landmark celebration of the borough’s rich history and vibrant present, residents are being invited to play a central role in making the six-month cultural festival a success.
Kingston Council is calling on locals to sign up as volunteers and help bring the event to life. A wide range of roles are now available through volunteeringkingston.org.uk – the borough’s central hub for volunteering. Those keen to get involved can simply search “Kingston 2025” to view all current opportunities.
From helping out for a few hours to committing over the full six months, there are flexible roles to suit different levels of time and experience. Opportunities include one-off shifts, group volunteering, and placements where volunteers can learn new skills along the way.
Cllr Andreas Kirsch, Leader of Kingston Council, said:
“Kingston 2025 is a cultural festival with communities at its heart, and we would like to encourage local people – whether they live, work or study here – to give their time and skills as a volunteer and help different parts of the programme come to life. This is a chance to be part of something truly special.”
Kingston 2025 is more than just a celebration — it is a journey through over 1,000 years of history. Marking the 1,100th anniversary of the crowning of King Athelstan, the first King of a united England, the festival will shine a light on Kingston’s pivotal role in shaping the nation.
The programme promises a dynamic mix of public events, performances, and exhibitions, all designed to showcase the energy, creativity, and diversity of Kingston today. A dedicated community heritage project will also gather and preserve the stories of Kingston’s many communities for future generations.
More details about the event, including programme highlights and heritage initiatives, can be found at kingstonheritage.org.uk/kingston2025.
Whether you’re a seasoned volunteer or getting involved for the first time, Kingston 2025 offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a once-in-a-generation celebration.
