A NIGHT bus service with a difference is being launched in the city centre with the aim of providing a safe haven for young people on a night out.

The Chelmsford SOS Bus launches on Saturday at 6.30pm in the High Street and will be based at the same site every weekend to offer advice, support and medical treatment to anyone who needs it.

The bus is operated by Open Road, the leading charity for those struggling with drug and alcohol problems and their families.

Steve Wood, Open Road’s SOS Bus Manager, said: ‘After months of fundraising and work in the garage, we are really delighted that we can launch our Chelms-ford SOS Bus service before Christmas.

“The bus has been specially adapted to have a medical room, rest area and support equipment and our team of trained volunteers are ready to go on duty from 10pm every Saturday night until 4am the next morning.

“We’ll also be on site for as many Friday nights as we can afford to operate.”

As well as offering a safe haven for late-night visitors, SOS Bus volunteers are trained to help diffuse trouble and treat people quickly - they do this alongside the police, pub and club door staff, the ambulance service and voluntary groups, such as the Street Pastors.

The medical unit is staffed by doctors who treat minor injuries, reducing the number of people needing to go to A&E.

All of this helps reduce the negative impact of the night-time economy on the businesses and residents of Chelmsford.

Local stakeholders who have contributed have played a key role in making the scheme possible.

These include Essex Community Foundation, Essex Police Crime Commissioner’s Office, Chelmsford City Council, Essex Police Crime Commissioner’s Office, McDonald’s and Essex County Council Public Health.

Sarah Wright, chief executive of Open Road, said: “But it’s not just for the invited few. We’d love to welcome all members of the public to come along and take a tour of the bus, guided by our amazing volunteers.

“So if you’re a local business, a contributor or a potential volunteer, do please come along.

“Since launching our original SOS Bus in 2008 in Colchester, we’ve assisted thousands of people and night-time issues have decreased markedly.

“We want to do even better in Chelmsford and raise enough funding to be on site every Friday night as well.

“Come along on Saturday and help us generate ongoing support for this vital service.”