Shops and businesses are joining the scheme to help people feel more confident going out independently
The Safe Places scheme is relaunching in Wokingham borough, led by Wokingham borough council in partnership with Optalis, a local social care provider, offering residents a network of trusted places to go if they need help.
Fourteen shops and businesses across the borough have signed up to the scheme so far, displaying a Safe Places sticker in their window to make them easy to recognise. More locations will be added on an ongoing basis.
Staff at Safe Places can help if someone is lost, feeling anxious or unsafe while out and about.
Participating locations can offer a place to wait and staff can provide directions or help contact friends, family or a support service (including emergency services) on behalf of someone who needs support.
Cllr David Hare, executive member for adult services, health and wellbeing, said: “We’re pleased to be relaunching Safe Places in partnership with Optalis Supported Employment Service and local businesses across the borough.
“The scheme is about making sure everyone feels safe and supported in our communities. It’s a simple idea that can make a real difference to people’s confidence and independence.
“The scheme is particularly valuable for anyone who may need extra support while out and about.
“I’m grateful to all the shops and businesses signing up – their involvement helps make Wokingham borough a more inclusive and welcoming place for everyone.”
When someone goes into a Safe Place and asks for help, a member of staff can provide directions if they’re lost or confused, offer a place to wait until they feel better, or make a phone call to a trustedbperson or for support.
Staff have access to easy-read guidance with pictures and simple questions. These materials were developed with help from members of CLASP, Wokingham’s learning disability self-advocacy group.
Debs Morrison, CEO of CLASP said: “We’re delighted to see Safe Places relaunching in Wokingham borough.
“CLASP members and the Learning Disability Partnership Board were involved in developing the materials, making sure they’re clear and accessible. This scheme makes a real difference to people’s confidence and independence when they’re out in the community.
“It’s great to see local businesses stepping up to be part of creating a more inclusive borough.”
The fourteen Safe Places currently signed up are:
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• Optalis Community Lives, Acorn Community Centre
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• Arborfield Green Leisure Centre
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• Ashby Carpets & Flooring
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• Earley Town Council
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• Loddon Valley Leisure Centre
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• Optalis, Molly Millars Lane
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• Optalis Community Lives, Woodford Park
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• Ryeish Green Sports Hub
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• Transform Housing & Support
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• Bulmershe Leisure Centre
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• Wokingham Leisure Centre, Carnival Pool
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• The following libraries: Wokingham, Lower Earley And Woodley libraries
Amy-Jayne Cheale, General Manager of Loddon Valley Leisure Centre, Arborfield Green Leisure Centre and Ryeish Green Sports Hub, said: “Being part of the Safe Places scheme reflects our commitment to creating a welcoming, safe environment for anyone who needs it. Everyone deserves to feel secure in our community.”
More venues will be added regularly. A full list and map showing all Safe Place locations is available on the Safe Places webpage.
Shops and businesses interested in becoming a Safe Place can email
safeplacesscheme@wokingham.gov.uk. A member of the team will provide further details and support through the registration process.
