‘Safe Place’ introduced in Gowerton and Gorseinon

Swansea Council has announced details of a pilot project that aims to highlight businesses and premises able to offer people of all ages a Safe Place and support if they feel anxious, scared or at risk while they are out and about in their community.

The council’s Community Safety Team have launched the scheme and are working alongside South Wales Police and businesses in Gowerton and Gorseinon.

Those that sign-up will see staff take part in training and once completed posters will be put up in their windows confirming their participation.

Staff will be able to help or reassure members of the public that need it, call for assistance if necessary and log and incidents or requests on a report sheet.

The Council say the Swansea pilot scheme is similar to other safe space initiatives taking place in communities around the UK.

They add that it will it help create safe environments but also reduce fear of crime and encourage reporting of criminal activity and anti-social behaviour.

Swansea Council’s Cabinet Member for Well-Being Alyson Pugh said: “A Safe Place offers help if someone is anxious, scared or at risk while they are out and about within the community and may need support.

“The people of Swansea are very community focused and always willing to help those in need.”This scheme is a great example of community partnership and I see it being a very popular and useful.

“Help can range from a phone call home to ask a relative to pick them up or simply help with directions.

“Safe Place Schemes can be any community space – from libraries to local businesses.”

The council’s Community Safety coordinator Paul Evans added: “The businesses in Gowerton and Gorseinon are very keen and willing to participate in this scheme.

“It’s important that everyone plays an active part in making communities and neighbourhoods safe for all.

“This scheme will benefit all members of society from the young person who may feel threatened to the elderly person who may just need a rest and a little reassurance.

“Trained staff at each Safe Place will be able to help the person find a solution to what they are experiencing and can contact someone to assist them.

“I am sure this scheme will be a success and fantastic work has been done by our partners to get it all off the ground”.

South Wales Police Inspector Simon Trick said: “We are extremely pleased to be a part of this initiative.

“The Safe Place Scheme identifies places in the community where people can go for help if they feel unsafe.

“Creating these safe places in our community is a valued opportunity to promote safeguarding and sign posting to those people that need it.” 

The pilot scheme will run for three months in Gorseinon and Gowerton before being assessed.

If successful the intention will be to expand the scheme to cover every ward in Swansea.

(Lead image: Swansea Council)