Bedford Street Angels
The Bedford Street Angels (charity number 1137619) are a volunteer-led initiative operating in Bedford, England, as part of the broader Street Angels movement. Founded under the umbrella of Christian churches in the local area, the organization deploys teams of trained volunteers to patrol Bedford town centre on weekend evenings, offering assistance to individuals vulnerable to crime, distress, or harm due to alcohol consumption, homelessness, or other social challenges[1][3][4].

Operations and Mission
The charity’s mission centers on providing non-judgmental practical support and care to night-time economy participants. Volunteers assist with first aid, de-escalating confrontations, reuniting lost individuals with friends, and distributing essentials such as water, blankets, and flip-flops. Their presence aims to reduce pressure on emergency services while fostering community safety[2][3][4].

Volunteer Structure
Recruited predominantly from local Christian congregations, volunteers undergo training to handle situations involving intoxication, mental health crises, and antisocial behavior. Teams operate on Saturdays, collaborating with police, street pastors, and business owners to address risks associated with nighttime activities[2][4].

Affiliation
The group is part of the national Street Angels network, which originated in Halifax in 2005 through a partnership between Churches Together and the YMCA[5]. Similar to other Street Angels programs, the Bedford initiative emphasizes proactive compassion rooted in Christian principles, though assistance is provided unconditionally regardless of faith or background[3][5].

Impact
While specific metrics are not publicly detailed, the charity’s activities align with the broader Street Angels model, which reports reductions in crime and hospital admissions in areas where patrols operate[5]. The organization’s work reflects a faith-based commitment to community welfare through direct engagement.

[1] https://www.bedfordstreetangels.org.uk [2] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/5008913 [3] http://www.bedfordstreetangels.org.uk/?page_id=101 [4] https://search.charitybase.uk/chc/1137619 [5] http://www.streetangels.org.uk/history-of-cni.html