Sticker scheme launched to help vulnerable people

A new project to help vulnerable people feel safer when they are out and about has been launched in Langley.

The Safe Place Scheme was launched at Reds Cafe, Harrow Market, yesterday.

The initiative aims to help people who have learning or physical disabilities or mental health problems, or who are elderly, frail or ill, lead independent lives by providing reassurance that help will be available if needed.

It works by asking businesses who have signed up to place a Safe Place sticker in their window, which identifies the premises as a place where a vulnerable person can receive help to make a call to the police, a carer or support worker in a moment of crisis.

Participating businesses are not expected to have to make many calls, but to provide a temporary safe haven until help and support arrives.

Ajay Gill is the Safe Place Champion for Slough.

He said: "I go out a lot on my own and am very independent but I don't always feel safe when I am out.

"Seeing these stickers will make me feel safer and I think it is a great idea."

The project is being piloted in Langley but if successful could be rolled out to Slough town centre.