Safe Place Criteria for Businesses in West Berkshire

1. Understanding the Safe Place Concept

• The primary goal of the Safe Places scheme is to offer immediate assistance to those in need.
• Safe Places scheme is voluntary, and each location determines its capacity to support individuals.
• Businesses should understand that they are joining a network of locations across West Berkshire that offer help and support to vulnerable individuals who may feel unsafe or need assistance.
• Staff members should be educated on the Safe Place model and its purpose.

2. Staff Training and Awareness

• Safeguarding Training: Staff should receive training in basic safeguarding level 1 or proof of Safeguarding must be shown if it has already been done.
• Toolkit: Safe Places will be talked through the Toolkit (It is West Berkshire Councils duty to make sure these Toolkits are up to date)
• Local Support Knowledge: Staff should be familiar with local services, such as emergency contacts, support networks.

3. Visible Signage

• Must display the official Safe Place Window Sticker at key entry points, making it clear that they are a Safe Place.
• Signs should be visible and easy to spot, including a standard format, both inside and outside the building.

4. Designated Safe Space is recommended

• A designated quiet area should be available for someone who feels unsafe or in need of a moment of rest. This space should be accessible, private, and not in a high-traffic area to ensure the individual's comfort and safety.
• The designated space should have seating, be calm, and have a welcoming atmosphere. It must be free from excessive noise and distractions

5. Confidentiality and Respect

• Safe Places should ensure that any information shared by a person seeking help is treated with the highest level of confidentiality.
• All staff should respect the dignity, privacy, and personal space of vulnerable individuals, maintaining a non-judgmental and supportive approach.

6. Accessibility

• The Safe Place ideally should be accessible to people with different mobility needs (e.g., wheelchair access, ramps, wide doors).
• Public transport routes, as well as parking and other facilities for people with disabilities, should be available to make it easier for individuals to reach the Safe Place.

7. Clear Communication Channels

• Emergency Procedures: Safe Places should have clear procedures in place for what to do in case of an emergency, including notifying emergency services if needed. (In Toolkit)
• Staff should know how to contact the local Safe Place network or support teams if more specific assistance is required. (In Toolkit)

8. Local Community Collaboration

• Safe Places should be encouraged to collaborate with West Berkshire Council and local organizations that provide support to vulnerable individuals, such as mental health services, police, and other community organizations.
• Regular feedback from local authorities and service users should be solicited to ensure ongoing improvements and updates to the business's Safe Place services.

9. Regular Reviews and Updates

• West Berkshire Council will review their Safe Place Venues status annually and ensure all staff undergo refresher training on supporting vulnerable individuals.
• Safe Places must check that signage, facilities, and policies are up-to-date and aligned with any changes in local or national standards.

10. Inclusive Support for All Vulnerabilities

• The Safe Place should provide support for all individuals, regardless of their specific condition (e.g., autism, dementia, learning disabilities, mental health crises, physical disabilities, etc.).
• This could include offering reassurance, calming strategies, and if necessary, the option to contact friends, family, or carers.

Additional Considerations:

• Feedback System: Safe Places could create a simple feedback system (online or in-person) to ensure individuals can report their experiences and suggest improvements.
• Community Promotion: Businesses that become Safe Places should work with West Berkshire Council and community groups to promote the initiative, helping to raise awareness and encourage more locations to join.

By meeting these criteria, businesses in West Berkshire can become trusted, accessible, and supportive environments for those in need of assistance, contributing to the safety and well-being of the local community. Please contact the West Berkshire Safe Places Scheme coordinator Rhys Lewis - Safeplaces@westberks.gov.uk