Return of safe havens for stressed shoppers
A number of venues are available in busy retail areas in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland for anyone who feels overwhelmed, vulnerable or distressed
WITH lockdown restrictions eased and more people getting out and about, shoppers are being reminded that Keep Safe Places are available.
A number of venues are available in busy retail areas in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland for anyone who feels overwhelmed, vulnerable or distressed.
Stickers can be seen at the front of Keep Safe Places, which include libraries and shops that have signed up to the scheme, and videos which outline how to use them are available on YouTube.
With the lifting of restrictions many areas with shops, hospitality and entertainment, venues may get busier in the coming weeks.
Leicestershire County Council cabinet member for safer communities, Councillor Deborah Taylor, said: “We’re pleased to say that Keep Safe Places are fully available again and staff are on hand to help if you or a loved one feel overwhelmed, anxious or scared while out and about.
“Staff can support by contacting friends, family or the emergency services if needed.
“For many people, knowing there’s a place of security close by can provide the confidence necessary to go out freely.
Keep Safe Places is a local partnership scheme led by Leicestershire County Council alongside police, the city and Rutland county councils, as well as Leicestershire’s district and borough councils, community partnerships and the charity Age UK.
In Charnwood, the following safe spaces are open: Birstall library, Wanlip Lane; Glebe House, Woodgate Chambers, Loughborough; John Storer House, Wards End, Loughborough; Loughborough library, Granby Street; Quorn community library, Stafford Orchard, Loughborough; Shepshed library, Hall Croft; Syston library, Upper Church Street, and the Falcon Centre, Pinfold Gate, Loughborough.