What is a Safe Place?
A Safe Place is a building such as a shop, a bank, a community centre or a church that displays the Safe Places logo on their window. Members of staff in these places have had training on how to help members of the Safe Places scheme.
Why do we need a Safe Places scheme?
Everyone has the right to visit their local town centre or community buildings and to feel safe. For some people this may be more difficult due to problems with their physical or mental health which can leave them feeling lost or vulnerable while out and about.
People with disabilities are at increased risk of physical or verbal abuse or financial exploitation because they are seen as an easy target by potential perpetrators. Evidence has shown that this is more likely to happen when people are out in the community. The Safe Places scheme seeks to address this by providing a network of support for people who may need help.
How does the scheme work?
Members of the Safe Places scheme carry a scheme card and/or a Safe Places key ring. These will have the contact numbers of two important people who are known to them and are people they can trust.
If the scheme member ever felt unsafe when they are in the community they would go to a location displaying the scheme logo in their window and show their card or key ring. A member of staff from the Safe Place would provide support to the vulnerable person by calling one of the contact numbers and explaining the problem. If the situation requires it the staff member may need to contact the Police.
Who is the scheme for?
The Safe Places scheme is aimed at any adult who may be vulnerable as a result of problems with their physical or mental health or because they have a learning disability. They may be experiencing dementia and have become disorientated whilst out in the community; they may have experienced some form of verbal or physical abuse whilst using public transport.
What are the benefits of being registered as a Safe Place?
Your business or community resource may already be acting as a safe place and your staff may already act as ‘good neighbours’ towards people who need help. This scheme is seeking to establish a more co-ordinated approach to ensuring adults who need support know where to get help and the benefits to you include:
- Personalised training on how to support vulnerable people
- Having contact numbers to get help for people more quickly
- Evidence of your businesses social conscience and commitment to supporting customers
- Demonstrating your commitment to Safe Places in marketing material or business related standards
- Helping to make your area a more safe and secure place
- Your business name and location will be entered onto the Safe Places website and mobile app (This is only the case for Safe Places located in Districts that have chosen to become members of the Safe Places National Network).
What support will be given to registered Safe Places?
All members of the scheme will be visited by a Safe Places worker who will provide more information about the scheme and will deliver a short session of personalised staff training. The training will provide information about vulnerable adults and how best to support them.
On completion of the training you will receive a pack containing details of the Safe Places scheme and the point of contact for any questions or concerns you may have. It will include a window sticker with the Safe Places logo for you to display in a prominent place. The logo is nationally recognised.
How do I get involved?
If you would like to become a member of the Safe Places scheme or you would like further information please contact Anthony Howe on (0191) 643 7057 or mobile 07817474655, or email anthony.howe@northtyneside.gov.uk