Tesco Stores join Safe Space Sussex scheme
More than 50 Tesco stores in Sussex have joined the Safe Space Sussex scheme, a county-wide initiative designed to support people who feel unsafe, threatened or at risk of harm while out in public.
The scheme, led by Sussex Police & Crime Commissioner (PCC) Katy Bourne is a network of trusted locations where people can seek help, make a phone call or simply wait in a safe environment until they feel ready to continue their journey.
With Tesco’s participation, the scheme gains a significant boost in accessibility, especially in areas with high footfall and extended opening hours.
PCC Katy Bourne has welcomed Tesco’s involvement: “I’m absolutely delighted that Tesco stores across Sussex have joined the Safe Space Sussex scheme.
“Their presence in so many communities makes them an ideal partner in helping people feel safer.
“Whether someone is experiencing harassment, feels threatened, or simply need a moment of solace, knowing they can walk into a Tesco store and be supported is incredibly reassuring.
“This partnership is a powerful step forward in our mission to make Sussex a safer place for everyone.”
All members of the Safe Space Sussex scheme receive guidance from the PCC’s office so they can provide appropriate support to those seeking help. Signage is provided to members to display in their shop windows, indicating their involvement in the scheme and their commitment to community safety.
Safe spaces include businesses, community spaces and other publicly accessible eligible venues where someone can make a phone call to a loved one or to the police if necessary, or simply somewhere to wait until they feel safe and comfortable to continue with their day.
Organisations that have signed up to the scheme have been assessed by the PCC’s office as suitable premises and provide individuals with access to a private or a quiet area, a phone, a toilet and drinking water.
Information on how to sign up to become a Safe Space and an interactive map displaying all the spaces across Sussex that are signed up to the scheme can be found at: https://www.safespacesussex.org.uk/