Op Halo receives national recognition at Licensing Awards
22.05.26 - Merseyside
Three officers have received national recognition for their outstanding work tackling Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) and better protecting people across Liverpool’s night time economy.
Constables Frank Stevens and Neil Fogg and Sergeant Paul McEneany have been awarded the Police Licensing Excellence Award 2026 for their work on Operation Halo, marking a significant and well-deserved achievement.
The award was presented at the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) Institute of Licensing National Conference, attended by policing and licensing professionals from across the country. Being recognised on such a prestigious national stage reflects the exceptional dedication, professionalism and impact of all those involved in the operation.
Operation Halo is a proactive policing initiative that was launched in two phases. Phase one built on the national ‘Ask for Angela’ scheme, which allows people to discreetly seek help from staff in licensed premises. Operation Halo aims to provide that extended support beyond the bars and clubs and Merseyside Police has worked with venues to train staff as VAWG Champions, individuals equipped to spot vulnerability, recognise offender behaviours, respond to incidents such as spiking, and preserve evidence where needed. These champions are approachable and easy to spot thanks to specially designed armbands. They’re there to help anyone who feels unsafe, building a culture of safety across Liverpool’s nightlife and making the night-time economy a safer place for women and girls.
To date 168 VAWG Champions have been trained and they include door staff, bar managers and taxi marshals.
Phase two saw the launch of Halo Points, clearly identifiable, designated safe spaces located across key locations within Liverpool City Centre. There are nine points in total, which are well-lit and highly visible. They provide a place where anyone who feels unsafe, or at risk, can seek immediate support, reassurance and practical help. Their visibility acts as a deterrent to offenders, while ensuring those who need help can access it quickly and discreetly. Each point offers direct contact with emergency services via 999 and is linked to City Watch CCTV, offering immediate reassurance and rapid intervention by VAWG champions or police officers for anyone feeling vulnerable or in distress.
Inspector Sophie Read, Licensing, Merseyside Police said: “The recognition of Operation Halo highlights the impact that strong partnership working can have in improving the safety of women and girls and anyone feeling vulnerable in our city. Everyone deserves to feel safe when enjoying Liverpool’s night-time economy, and Halo Points are a clear and practical step towards achieving this.
“The award acknowledges not only the leadership of Frank Stevens, Neil Fogg and Paul McEneany, but also the wider teams and partners who contributed to its success.
“Receiving this honour at a national conference is a testament to the commitment, innovation and impact of everyone involved, and reinforces the value of partnership working in keeping communities safe.”
Merseyside Police Commissioner Emily Spurrell said: “I’m thrilled to see Merseyside officers recognised on a national stage for this pioneering work to protect women and girls. Operation Halo is a powerful example of what can be achieved when police, partners and businesses come together with a shared determination to make our night-time economy safer for all.
“Frank, Neil and Paul, along with everyone involved, have shown real leadership, innovation and commitment to tackling violence against women and girls. Their work is already making a visible difference here in Liverpool, and I hope this recognition inspires others across the country to follow their lead.
“Everyone deserves to feel safe on a night out, and initiatives like this are helping to build the confidence, awareness and support networks needed to make that a reality.”