AN INNOVATIVE project to provide places of refuge for people who are frightened, intimidated or lost when they are out and about in the community is to be extended.

Businesses and organisations in Southampton have signed up to offer their premises as safe havens for people feeling vulnerable.

The Safe Places scheme has already proved successful in Portswood and Shirley, and has now also been launched in the Bitterne area.

It is part of a wider respect campaign aimed at improving disabled people’s experiences in the community.

Places signed up to the initiative are identified by large, brightly coloured logos in their windows or doors.

Residents who feel worried about becoming victims of crime or needing help can register for the scheme and are given a contact card which enables trained staff at the Safe Places firms and organisations to find out who to get in touch with to help.

Usually, the cards will provide contact details for someone the person trusts, such as a family member or carer.

The scheme is a partnership involving Southampton City and Hampshire County councils, Southampton Learning Disability Partnership Board and Hampshire police.

Southampton’s housing boss, Councillor Peter Baillie, said: “This supportive scheme can make a real difference to people’s lives and my thanks goes out to all those businesses and organisation who have already signed up.

“I would encourage more to come forward so many more people will benefit from having a safe place to go if the need arises.”

Councillor Ivan White, who is in charge of the city’s adult social care and health, as well as being co-chairman of the learning disability partnership board, paid tribute to those who have helped provide the service.

He said: “The success of the Safer Places scheme is due to businesses and organisations signing up for this initiative.

“The scheme is helping to bring the community together to help support anyone who may become worried or afraid.”