A new mobile welfare unit, dubbed the ‘Nee-Naw’, will hit the streets of Dublin City this summer, offering late-night support to people in need during nights out.
Dublin City Council, with support from the Department of Justice, has announced the launch of the Dublin Nights Help Zone, a pilot initiative aimed at improving safety and wellbeing in the city’s night-time economy.
Stationed on Camden Street every Friday and Saturday night from 10pm to 3am, the van will begin operating on 4 July 2025 for a 6 to 8-week trial period.
The brightly branded unit will provide a safe, calm space for individuals who may be feeling unwell, overwhelmed, or simply need a breather during a night out. Staff will include a medic, a welfare officer, two trained security personnel(one male, one female), and a site operator, all trained to offer friendly, stigma-free support.
While officially titled the Dublin Nights Help Zone, the service will be publicly known as ‘The Nee-Naw’, a playful nickname intended to make it more visible and approachable.
“It’s about making sure help is easy to find, free of judgment, and available when people need it most,” said Ray O’Donoghue, Dublin’s Night-Time Economy Advisor.
The initiative is part of the national Night-Time Economy Advisor Pilot Scheme, which aims to foster safer and more inclusive city centres after dark, with people-centred solutions and community-based harm reduction.
Cllr Racheal Batten, Chair of the Economic Development and Enterprise SPC, said the project sends a strong message of care and support:
“This is about real, practical help for those enjoying Dublin’s nightlife, showing that wellbeing and dignity matter.”
Richard Shakespeare, Chief Executive of Dublin City Council, described the move as “a practical, people-focused step toward a safer and more welcoming city at night.”
The scheme also has the backing of An Garda Síochána, with Assistant Commissioner Paul Cleary calling it an important tool in supporting Dublin’s vibrant night-time scene.
“This initiative will provide essential services and a supportive space for people enjoying the city after dark,” he said.
The ‘Nee-Naw’ is expected to serve as a model for future efforts to make urban nightlife safer and more supportive for everyone.
