Safe Places Scheme launched in Chalvey

A scheme designed to offer vulnerable people a safe place to go when they need help has launched in Chalvey.

The Safer Slough Partnership and the Police and Crime Commissioner for Thames Valley secured Home Office funding for projects which help improve feelings of safety in public spaces, with a particular focus on women and girls. 

The funding has enabled the launch of the Safe Places Scheme in Chalvey, which is an initiative that aims to provide help and support to anyone who may feel unsafe and vulnerable when they are out and about in their local community. This includes women and girls, those who have learning disabilities, are elderly, have a physical disability, or have a mental health problem.

The council has been working with Chalvey Community Partnership as a key partner, Thames Valley Police and other local community groups to get the scheme up and running in Chalvey.

Local businesses are encouraged to sign up to the scheme and display a Safe Places sticker in their window which shows it is a place where a vulnerable person can go in an emergency.

Staff at the businesses will be trained on what to do and can offer a temporary safe haven or make a call to a carer or safe contact on the person’s behalf.

Councillor Beni Bains, lead member for regulation and public protection, said: “I’m pleased to see this scheme being launched in Chalvey and hope many businesses will sign up to help. We don’t expect they will have to make a lot of calls, but just having them be available to support someone vulnerable is a great display of community spirit.” 

Matthew Barber, Police and Crime Commissioner for Thames Valley, said: “I am delighted to welcome the launch of the Safe Places scheme in Chalvey, which will provide essential support to those who may feel vulnerable when they are out in their local community. 

“I would encourage businesses to sign up to the scheme, where they will receive training on what to do and how they can offer a temporary safe haven, or make a call to a carer or safe contact on the individual’s behalf.”

The Curve, Arbour Park and all other council buildings are already part of the Safe Places Scheme. 

If businesses are interested in finding out more, or taking part, please email communitysafety@slough.gov.uk  

A full list of businesses signed up will be listed on the council’s website and on Chalvey Community Partnership’s social media.  

Read more about the Safe Places initiative nationally .