Safety in Town scheme launched for vulnerable people and those with disabilities

A scheme to improve safety for people with disabilities and anyone who feels vulnerable when out in Lancashire has been launched.

Lancashire County Council’s champion for disabled people, Peter Steen, launched the programme at an event in Plungington Community Centre, Preston.

The scheme, which has been developed by the Lancashire Learning Disability Partnership Board (LLDPB), ensures people can access welcoming and safe places to get help when needed.

Libraries, shops, bus stations, community centres and other organisations have signed up to the scheme which was developed by people with disabilities.

Officers from Lancashire County Council, Lancashire Constabulary, Self Advocacy in Lancashire and other organisations who make up the board have been working with businesses, shops and other agencies to get the scheme up and running over the last two years.

They have also produced cards where people can keep their details handy in case they need to use them in a Safety in Town place.

Safety in Town places display the Safety in Town logo to let people know they are part of the programme.

Peter Steen, Lancashire County Council’s disability champion, said: “Safety in Town is an excellent idea. It's designed to reassure people as they will know there is always somewhere close by they can go for help if they need it.

"When they see any shops, bus stations and other buildings displaying the Safety in Town sticker, they can be reassured they will be welcomed by understanding people in a safe place who have had training about the issues that people with disabilities and anyone else who feels vulnerable may face.

"Staff will help by contacting your friends, family members or carers who can come to get you if you need support or by calling the police if you need to report any crimes or incidents. They will wait with you until help arrives.”