A CHARITY set up in memory of a Taunton man who died on his way home from a night out and relaunched an initiative to make young people safer.

Taunton Safe Hubs, a collaboration between local charity Get Home Safe and St John Ambulance, aims to raise awareness among young people about staying safe and having a plan for getting home safely.

Get Home Safe was launched following the tragic death of Ross Paterson, 23, in March 2014 when he was hit by a taxi as he walked home along the Obridge viaduct.

Somerset County Gazette:

A spokesperson for the charity, which was set up by Ross's aunt Helen Evans, said: "He was just walking home from a night out with friends.

"He had his whole life ahead of him, but his life was wiped out in an instant and his family’s lives were changed forever."

During the pandemic, Get Home Safe volunteers have been working behind the scenes ahead of the relaunch of the Taunton Safe Hubs.

The new, improved model includes a mobile treatment centre and ambulance with crew.

The aim is to have a presence in Taunton town centre on predicted busy weekends, to offer first aid and help to anyone who needs it, and to make sure everyone gets home safe.

The Taunton Safe Hubs are also a safe place for anyone feeling vulnerable, or if they find themselves separated from friends and will help alleviate pressures on NHS services.

The first hub of the year was held on Friday.

 

You can donate to Get Home Safe by clicking HERE.