A new network of high street safe havens has been rolled out across West Bridgford, Bingham, and Ruddington to help anyone who feels vulnerable or at risk. Organised by Rushcliffe Borough Council and Nottinghamshire Police, the initiative encourages local businesses to provide a secure environment for people facing anti-social behaviour or threats.
How the Safe Spaces Work
Anyone who feels unsafe can simply step inside a participating shop or library and stay there until they feel comfortable to leave. Many venues, such as the Co-op on Bridgford Road, even offer a private room and a telephone to help people contact support services safely. Staff are not expected to act as counsellors but are there to offer a friendly, non-judgmental space to rest.
The scheme runs alongside the well-known ‘Ask for Angela’ campaign, which allows people to discreetly ask staff for help using a specific codeword. Participating businesses display a special poster in their windows so passers-by know exactly where they can find a helping hand.
Community and Official Support
Cllr Rob Inglis, from Rushcliffe Borough Council, said: “We’re pleased to support the Ask for Angela campaign and Safe Spaces scheme helping to establish safe places throughout our retail and hospitality premises in West Bridgford and across the Borough. In line with our White Ribbon Accreditation action plan, Safe Spaces is a positive step to engage with the community and help end violence against women and girls. As well as offering a safe place for anyone to wait in, many stores also offer additional support, making available a room and telephone so that domestic abuse services can be contacted, confidentially and safely. This initiative strengthens our ongoing partnership work with Nottinghamshire Police to create safer communities, and we thank all participating businesses for their commitment.”
Dozens of popular local shops have already signed up to the network, including branches of Boots, Marks & Spencer, Sainsbury's, and local libraries. Bill Hall, from West Bridgford ShopWatch, said: “Our Co-op on Bridgford Road has been an active member for over 10 years. Coordinated by RBC and the Police, the group works collaboratively with partner organisations to reduce and prevent retail crime, with a particular focus on shop theft. In recent months, our discussions have expanded to include wider community safety issues, such as anti-social behaviour and the development of Safe Spaces. Like many businesses in West Bridgford, the Co-op is committed to supporting this initiative and is keen to offer our store as a Safe Space for anyone who feels at risk or threatened while out in the community.”
Get Involved
Any other local business owners who would like to offer their premises as a safe haven can email Judith Brown at jbrown@rushcliffe.gov.uk to find out more. The initiative covers West Bridgford, Bingham, and Ruddington, with plans for potential expansion.
