Mobile Patrols and Sobering Up Shelters

Mobile patrols (also called night patrols or street patrols) are community-based programs that work to keep people safe and deal with disputes in a way that respect local cultural values [49911]. They also provide assistance to people who are intoxicated in public and may be at risk of harming themselves or others [29075]. Mobile patrols work with the person to identify a safe place to go to. Often, they can help link people to services they need such as mental health or homeless services.

There has been an increase in the number of mobile patrols in response to Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody recommendations [29075]. There is evidence that mobile patrols have reduced admissions to police lock-ups, youth and alcohol-related crime and protective custody apprehensions [49442].

Sobering up shelters provide a safe place for people who are intoxicated. They can provide a bed for the night, a meal, a shower and sometimes laundry facilities. They can also refer people to treatment and social support services [36111][34063].