Gloucestershire Constabulary help to relaunch Safe Places scheme

Gloucestershire Constabulary and Cotswold District Council are working in partnership with local businesses to help vulnerable people feel safe in the community.

The Safe Places scheme is an accessible, national network of venues where anyone who might feel anxious, scared or at risk when they are out in public places can take refuge and seek support.

This could be someone with a learning disability, sensory impairment, autism, dementia, mental health problems, physical disabilities or anyone at risk from domestic abuse.

Yesterday (Monday 25 March) police cadets visited businesses around Cirencester, successfully signing up 14 venues to join the Safe Places scheme.

Along with Cirencester Police Station, Boots, The Kings Head Hotel, Made By Bob, Costa Coffee and He Said She Waffles are among the venues which will now appear on the Safe Places national network.

Staff members at venues displaying a Safe Places sticker in their window will be able to support anyone seeking help by assisting them with making phone calls to a friend, family member or the emergency services.

Anyone who joins the scheme will get a card to carry with them which can be shown at designated venues if they encounter a problem or get into difficulty.

Cotswolds Neighbourhood Policing Sergeant Andy Miller said: “The Safe Places scheme is a great initiative and we are proud to support it.

"The response by Cirencester businesses has been fantastic and demonstrates what an inclusive town this is.

 “Many vulnerable people may feel isolated and scared to venture into the community, so having places of refuge and people to help them if they need it, will make all the difference.

 “We are looking forward to rolling this scheme out across the Cotswolds, giving even more people the confidence to live independent lives and feel connected to their community.”

Cotswolds District Council’s Community Wellbeing Officer, Sarah Clifton-Gould said: “It’s been wonderful working with our local police, and businesses, to bring back the Safe Places scheme to the Cotswold district. 

"Many community-minded businesses have already signed up to offer a safe place to anyone feeling unsafe or vulnerable, while out and about in the district.

“Look out for the Safe Places logo, or find your nearest safe place on the ‘Safe Places’ app. If you’re interested in offering a safe place at your venue, please contact us for more information.