Have you heard about Safe Places? This is a scheme set up by Mencap, the charity for people with learning disabilities. A colourful logo (as shown) was created that could be used by shops, cafes or any other business premises to show that they could be used as a short-term safe haven for anyone who might be vulnerable. Originally this was only for people with learning disabilities.
Safe Places Shropshire was created in 2013 by a group of volunteers, including officers from West Mercia Police. It was concluded early on that anyone could be vulnerable at any stage of their life. Safe Places Shropshire supports anyone whether they are living with a disability, including dementia, experiencing bullying on the way to school or anyone having a panic attack.
Anyone needing assistance can go into a premises displaying the logo and ask for a ‘phone call to be made to a relative, friend or carer, for that person to come and fetch them. ‘Help’ cards are available to assist.
The team of volunteers has created over 500 Safe Places in Shropshire (which includes Telford & Wrekin). They have distributed thousands of ‘Help’ cards to users. The website safeplacesshropshire.com enables you to search for your nearest Safe Place.
If you own a business premises, you could get recognition for the assistance you probably already give to vulnerable people. If you are a vulnerable individual, you can discover where you can go for help, should you need it when you are out and about in our market towns.
This is a simple, inexpensive community initiative. If you want to be part of the scheme, contact either Ruby (07941 398933) at safeplaceschair@gmail.com or Ann (07970 816030) at safeplacessecretary@gmail.com
