Wiltshire Police launch new Walk Away campaign

When things get heated – WALK AWAY.

This is the message of a new campaign being launched by Wiltshire Police today (11/03) to prevent deaths and serious injuries caused by a person being assaulted on a night out.

The new campaign encourages self-control, support from friends and for men to walk away from heated situations before the situation becomes violent.

It also calls on friends and bystanders of potential offenders, as well as members of the public, to de-escalate situations when it’s safe to do so.

The campaign’s message is already visible in community areas across Swindon, including clubs, pubs and takeaways, and is also being supported by Great Western Hospital, Swindon Town Football Club and Swindon Borough Council.

Detective Chief Inspector Phil Walker of the Major Crime Investigation Team said: “We want people to have a great time on nights out across the county.

“However, we know that assaults which happen during a night out can have serious consequences.

“A single punch can ruin lives and this campaign is aimed at changing behaviours and ensuring that nights out are safe for everyone.

“We have good relationships with our local venues and partners and some of these will be displaying messages as part of a range of measures to make nights out memorable for the right reasons.

“People in Swindon and Wiltshire can help us by sharing these messages.

“You can talk to the people in your lives and if you’re heading out yourself, know the signs when things start to take a turn for the worse. You can spot the danger and encourage your friends to walk away.”

The Walk Away campaign is being backed by Gifty Tetteh – the mother of Freddie Fontete-Jones, who died after being punched while on a night out in Salisbury in February 2022.

She said: “I don't wish this on anybody. No mother should have to go through this.”

Research shows that most incidents are caused by small triggers, something as basic as an error in judgement, a spilled drink, or a rude comment.

Offenders and victims often do not know each other beforehand and in most cases, the offender has no criminal background.

Here are some tips to prevent violence on a night out:

1. Keep an eye out for your mates. You know them best, but if they're staring, shouting or squaring up, it's a definite sign to get them to walk away.
2. A quick apology. We're often not our best selves when we're drunk. A quick apology on behalf of a friend can help clear up a misunderstanding before things can kick off.
3. Step in. If you feel safe, you can step in and make eye contact with your mate. It can make it easier to talk them down.
4. Ask for help. If there are other mates out with you, get them to give you a hand. The more people that stand up and step in, the more likely things will calm down. If things are getting out of hand, call 999. In a non-emergency you can contact us online or call 101.

For full details and further information visit: Home - We Walk Away.