Street marshals in Bideford granted limited police powers

Street marshals in Bideford have been granted limited policing powers under the Community Safety Accreditation Scheme (CSAS).

This accreditation authorises them to use certain police powers to tackle antisocial behaviour. Gardant’s street marshals, accredited by the Devon & Cornwall Police Chief Constable, now have the authority to:

• Share and access information and intelligence with Devon & Cornwall Police.
• Require a name and address for antisocial behaviour.
• Require a name and address for relevant offences under a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) or byelaws.

Street marshals can be identified by the CSAS logo on their uniforms and will carry a police-issued ID badge and a powers card outlining their accredited authority.

These can be shown upon request when reasonable.

FIND OUT BELOW WHAT THE SCHEME MEANS FOR BIDEFORD

The powers have also been granted to marshals in Exmouth.

Becki Brodest, CSAS Manager for Devon & Cornwall Police, said: “I am delighted to announce that CSAS accreditation has been granted to the town marshals in Bideford and Exmouth. This achievement is a testament to the outstanding work of the marshals employed by Gardant Group. I am confident they will make a tangible impact, and I look forward to seeing the difference they will bring.”

Gardant Security, with over a decade of experience in the sector, already holds CSAS accreditation for street marshals patrolling Barnstaple.

Ollie Backhouse, Managing Director of Gardant Security, said: “CSAS accreditation is a formal recognition of our training, professionalism, and commitment to the community. It grants our marshals police-approved powers, enabling them to actively address antisocial behaviour. This accreditation ensures that we are not just visible but fully equipped and qualified to make a meaningful difference.”

Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez secured £1 million in Home Office funding for hotspot policing as part of the Street Focus project. 

The funding is shared across 13 towns and cities, including Bideford and Exmouth. 

An additional £200,000 in match funding from the Commissioner has expanded the number of street marshal patrols.

From May to December 2024, hotspot policing delivered 18,736 foot patrol hours across the region. 

Officers attended 1,194 antisocial behaviour incidents, made 189 arrests, and engaged with more than 68,000 members of the public.

All security companies providing street marshals for hotspot policing are being supported to receive CSAS training and accreditation.