The streets will see an increased presence of officers, in both uniform and plain clothes, over the festive period
Police perform a high visibility patrol in Liverpool City Centre(Image: Liverpool Echo)
As the festive season approaches and city and town centres become busier, Merseyside Police are stepping up their efforts to keep shoppers and nightlife-goers safe. The force has launched its Winter of Action campaign, running from December 1 to January 31 2026, as part of a national initiative to ensure public safety during the Christmas and New Year period.
As part of the campaign, residents and visitors will see more officers on the streets, including uniformed and plain-clothes officers, as well as specialist teams such as the Dog Section, Mounted Section, and Roads Policing units.
Officers will also be working closely with CCTV operators, local businesses, bar staff, and security personnel to maintain a safe environment in Liverpool and across Merseyside.
Inspector Jack Woodward, Local Policing, said: “We expect the next few weekends to be particularly busy across our city and town centres.
“As part of the Winter of Action, we will have an increased police presence each weekend, targeting the minority intent on causing trouble, including shop theft, anti-social behaviour, and predatory behaviour towards women and girls in night-time economy locations.”
He added: “We are asking the public to look out for each other, report suspicious behaviour, and be kind to retail workers who are under extra pressure at this time of year.
“If you see retail staff being abused, do not intervene personally—report it to security instead. Also, when visiting bars, clubs, and restaurants, keep your belongings secure and drink responsibly. We want everyone to enjoy themselves, stay safe, and get home safely.”
Shaun Holland, Director of Operations at Liverpool Business Improvement District said: “We know how busy Liverpool City Centre can be at Christmas and it’s a time of joy and revelry, but it’s vital for our businesses that it’s as safe a place to work as it is to both shop and go for a night out.
“We’ve marked 15 years of Purple Flag status in Liverpool, so it’s one of the safest night outs you can have, but that only exists because we work together.”
Merseyside Police is urging communities to continue reporting offences or suspicious behaviour to ensure that the festive season is remembered for the right reasons, and to support those for whom the holidays may be a difficult time.
Advice issued by Merseyside Police ahead of festive season
Take care of your valuables
When carrying a bag or handbag, check it’s closed with the opening facing towards your body, especially in crowded areas.Don’t leave shopping bags on display in your car and make sure your car is securely locked.
Keep your wallet or valuables out of sight if you can. Separate a little money from your handbag. That way, if your bag does get stolen, you can still get home.
Getting home
Plan your journey home before you set off – pre-book a taxi or arrange a lift with a non-drinking driver – and go home with friends if you can.
Don’t get into unlicensed vehicles. You can make sure you get home safely by using a private-hire company, whether you book your taxi beforehand by phone, or take a properly licensed Hackney Cab.
If you are walking, keep to busy and well-lit streets where possible.
Cash points and carrying money
Take care at cash points – look around before inserting your card. If you see somebody suspicious hanging around the cashpoint, walk away and go back later.
Only take out what you need, don’t walk around with bundles of cash in your pockets.
Always call 999 if a crime is in progress. You can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
You can also call 101 or DM us @MerPolCC or Facebook ‘Merseyside Police Contact Centre’.