INDIVIDUALS are being reminded that businesses in Rhyl can provide a 'safe space' for anyone who finds themselves feeling vulnerable, confused, or unwell when out and about in the town.

Rhyl BID, in partnership with North Wales Police are behind the Safe Space Campaign. The trio are using the busy run up to Christmas to relaunch the initiative.

The Safe Space Campaign has been running in Rhyl for more than 18 months. The tragic disappearance and death of Sarah Everard prompted its creation. 

Abigail Pilling, Rhyl BID Manager, said: “Christmas can be a difficult time of year for many people. At any point should anyone feel that they need assistance, you only need to pop into a participating business and help will be on hand.

“One of Rhyl BID’s priorities is to make Rhyl a safe and welcoming place. We work closely with the police and along with the Rhyl BID Town Rangers, this scheme goes further to make people in Rhyl feel safer.”

Businesses participating in the scheme display a ‘Safe Space’ poster in their window. People feeling uneasy, for example, those that may sense they are being followed, have become lost, confused, unwell, feeling anxious or have misplaced their wallet or phone or dropped their keys, can enter the store and tell staff they need a ‘safe space’.

Staff will provide the space and offer assistance as appropriate, based on guidance given as part of the scheme.

Assistance may include contacting the Town Rangers or PCSO for help, using 101 or 999 if it is a police matter or an emergency or using a business phone to ring a friend, carer or taxi for the person.

Constable Simon Keeting, of North Wales Police said: "We are pleased to be working in partnership with Rhyl BID to deliver the 'Safe Space' initiative to support individuals in Rhyl when they are feeling vulnerable and require assistance.

“Following the success of this scheme, we are thankful to Rhyl BID for allowing North Wales Police to replicate this scheme in other towns.”

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Abigail added: "Public safety is always paramount, as is being able to reassure people that Rhyl businesses, as a collective, are playing a part in providing safer shopping experiences. This is yet again a reminder that the businesses in our town have heart, and are a part of the community they serve, and are here to help."

Businesses wishing to sign up to the scheme can email: townrangers@rhylbid.com