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s we step into Christmas, City of London Police prepare for one of the busiest social seasons with Operation Reframe, a multi-agency initiative which continues to transform safety in the Square Mile's night-time economy.
Launched in April 2022, Operation Reframe is a monthly operation focusing on preventing violence against women and girls in the night-time economy, and this intelligence-led operation brings together a coalition of partners working together to ensure the City remains welcoming and secure during evening hours.
The initiative has taken on particular significance as festive celebrations draw increased numbers of workers, residents, and visitors to the area's bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
At the heart of this year's provision stands the innovative City Safe Bus, a converted ambulance provided by the Eastern City Business Improvement District. This mobile welfare hub, stationed beside the taxi rank at Liverpool Street Station on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings, has become an integral component of the City's safety infrastructure.
Staffed by City of London Police officers, medical professionals, and volunteers from organisations including the Samaritans and NHS mental health services, the vehicle serves as a sanctuary for those requiring assistance, whether they've become separated from colleagues, need help arranging transport home, require emotional support, or simply need to charge their mobile phone.
Commander Umer Khan OBE, City of London Police, who is regularly seen at the multi-agency evenings, said: “Over the festive season, we’re expecting a large number of visitors coming into the Square Mile to enjoy everything it has to offer. Our dedicated teams will be out in force across the City, working to a zero tolerance of criminal behaviour and ready to help wherever needed.
“During the Christmas party season, women in the City shouldn’t have to fear being abused or harassed when they’re out. We’re committed to making our streets safer and we specifically target perpetrators who make women and girls feel unsafe.
“Operation Reframe reinforces our commitment to tackling violence, abuse and intimidation against women and girls,
© CITY SECURITY MAGAZINE – WINTER 2025
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Operation Reframe:
Keeping the Square Mile safe this festive season
and keeping those that live or work in, or visit, the City safe and feeling safe.”
The City of London Police’s strengthened partnership work during Operation Reframe, including with British Transport Police, the City of London Corporation Licensing Team, St John Ambulance, Network Rail, Our Safer City, with their Safe Haven scheme and taxi marshals at Liverpool Street, the City Security Council, who provide security officers to support the deployment of police officers on the night, and Street Pastors are all vital in enhancing public safety.
We also have an extensive CCTV network, so officers can be sent directly to any suspicious or dangerous situations which may be happening.
The success of Operation Reframe is evidenced not merely through crime statistics but through the palpable sense of security it has fostered.
Licensed premises report improved confidence amongst staff and patrons, whilst transport hubs have seen reduced incidents of anti-social behaviour. As we head into the busy Christmas period across the Square Mile, security professionals and concerned citizens are invited to observe Operation Reframe firsthand.
During Operation Reframe in the festive period, the City Safe Bus will be outside Liverpool Street, from 18:00 until late, offering opportunities to engage with partners and understand how this model might be replicated elsewhere.
Umer Khan OBE
Commander – Operations & Security Chief Officer Team City of London Police
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