Inspired by similar projects in cities like Vancouver and Toronto, Ottawa is launching a “night ambassadors” pilot project in the ByWard Market.
The role of the night ambassadors will be to offer “additional eyes on the street” from 9:30 p.m. to 4 a.m and Friday and Saturdays. The ambassadors’ role will be to make the Market a welcoming place for everyone and ensure everyone has a safe night out, says the City of Ottawa.
Working in pairs on designated routes, night ambassadors will offer “a calm, approachable presence in high-energy settings,” according to the ByWard Market District Authority.
Like political ambassadors, they must also have diplomatic skills. Candidates must be well-versed in violence-prevention strategies and be able to navigate high-pressure and high-stress situations.
Among their tasks: assisting intoxicated and vulnerable people on Saturdays and Sundays from 9:30 p.m. to 4 a.m.
Night ambassadors will offer bystander intervention and de-escalation, help bar and restaurant patrons and employees find a safe ride home, talk to people about consent and harm reduction, connect people to emergency and social services and help people charge phones and get essentials like first aid and water.
They will also work with first responders, liaise with late-night venues and keep a log of incidents.
According to the ByWard Market District Authority job posting, the job pays $25 an hour.
Applicants must have valid first and CPR qualifications and experience in medical, social services, community outreach and/or harm reduction. Bilingualism is an asset.
The project, funded with $35,000 from the City of Ottawa’s Nightlife Office, starts June 27 and will run until early November.
