Police in Wakefield have launched a new ‘Safe Space’ initiative in partnership with the Mayor of West Yorkshire, Wakefield District Council and third sector partners – using one of Welfare Hire’s welfare units as a base.

The unit is located in the centre of the city, amongst its bars and clubs, and will be staffed by police officers, local authority employees and others from 8pm to 4am every Friday and Saturday night.

The initiative, which has been funded through the Mayoral led Safer Streets Fund for the next 12 months, aims to offer reassurance to the public through expert advice and support from a trained police officer, who can also deal with any ongoing criminal investigations.

Sergeant Graeme Dent of West Yorkshire Police explained, “This Safe Space has been set up as part of our commitment under the Violence Against Women and Girls strategy to ensure that women and girls in West Yorkshire not only are safe but that they also feel safe.

“We want everyone to be able to safely enjoy the varied nightlife that Wakefield has to offer. The Safe Space will not be exclusive and if anyone feels unsafe or needs assistance from police or other agencies, we want them to know that this is a safe place that they can go to.”

“The Wakefield Safe Space is a great initiative that Welfare Hire Nationwide is proud to support.  Contributing to the safety of women and girls improves their wellbeing, which is one of our core company values.  It’s a good opportunity to help out our local community, close to our Headquarters,” commented Andy Grayshon, Welfare Hire’s Commercial Director.

The Safe Space is located in one of Welfare Hire’s ECO 7+ welfare units, with plenty of space to sit down and talk over any issues that the vulnerable person is experiencing.  Other facilities within the unit include tea and coffee, blankets, phone chargers and first aid equipment.

Learn more about our Welfare Units and Tower Lights here.