Safe Place Schemes are locations in the community, where people who need extra support can go for help. Schemes are run across the country including Cleveland.
Help can range from a ‘phone call home to ask a relative to pick them up or help with directions. Safe Place Schemes can be any community space – from libraries to local businesses.
The aim is that vulnerable people, typically those with learning disabilities, can use the venues if they feel unsafe.
This could be because of an incident of hate crime, or it just because they feel vulnerable and need assistance.
Just knowing about a Safe Place Scheme means many people feel safer and more able to go out and about and lead more independent lives.
How can I recognise a Safe Place?
Places taking part in the scheme can be recognised by the Teeswide Safe Place Logo, shown above.
People using the scheme will generally have a card, which will have 2 contact numbers of people who may come and assist them if needed. Contacts may include family members or service providers.
All Marks and Spencers stores and Cleveland Fire Brigade buildings are Safe Places.
Who Supports the Safe Place Scheme?
The Police and Crime Commissioner for Cleveland has championed the scheme. It is also supported by a variety of partnership agencies including health and social care, Cleveland Fire Brigade and Community Safety Partnerships.
This is a list of all the Safe Places in Stockton, Hartlepool, Middlesbrough and Redcar and Cleveland.