Distressed shoppers can get help at '˜Keep Safe Places' in Melton and beyond

'˜Keep Safe Places' have been set up in Melton and across the county as a help to anyone feeling overwhelmed or distressed during the busy festive shopping season.
'Safe Place' logo'Safe Place' logo
'Safe Place' logo

Stickers can be seen at the front of ‘Keep Safe Places’ – in Melton these are the Fairmead Sure Start Centre in Drummond Walk, Melton Borough Council’s Parkside offices, the library in Wilton Road, The Cove Sure Start Centre in Sysonby Street, The Edge Sure Start Centre in Dalby Road and Venture House Youth Centre in Asfordby Road.

Coun Joe Orson, Leicestershire County Council’s cabinet member for safer communities, said: “Christmas is a busy time and with lots of shoppers around, which could leave some people feeling overwhelmed, anxious or scared.

“Staff can offer basic support, including a place to sit down. They can also contact friends or relatives if necessary – or the emergency services if needed.

“Knowing there’s somewhere to go to for assistance offers reassurance. If you have any friends or relatives who you think would benefit from knowing about the scheme, please do pass the message on.”

The initiative was developed by the county council in partnership with the police, city and district/borough councils, local community partnerships and Age UK Leicester Shire & Rutland.

‘Keep Safe Place’ users also have the option of being referred to First Contact, a multi-agency initiative that checks if people would benefit from a host of services and advice such as getting the right benefits, smoke alarms, help with their finances or support for carers.

Council offices, police stations and libraries also provide Keep Safe cards which show the details of who to contact in an emergency, or medical assistance that may be needed.

Information: www.leicestershire.gov.uk/find-a-keep-safe-place