Steve Brine is supporting the launch of Safer Places, which will take place at The Great Hall on 22nd June.
The scheme will bring together many local businesses and organisations who will offer their premises as a safe haven, and Steve is delighted to offer his support by signing up his constituency office on Stockbridge Road.
The scheme will raise awareness of the issues faced by people with a learning disability regarding hate crime, and offer a safe refuge for those who are vulnerable.
Safe Places can be identified by a large brightly coloured Safe Places logo stuck on the windows or doors of businesses and organisations that have signed up to help with this initiative.
Steve said: "I am delighted to be able to offer some help here, and join a number of local businesses across the community who are joining in."
Local businesses which have signed up include the Screen Cinema, River Park Leisure Centre, Stagecoach at the Bus Station, Sainsbury's, Specsavers, Hilliers, Barlows Butchers, Theatre Royal, Elizabeth II Court, Robert Dyas, Ask Italian, the Master Baker and the Discovery Centre.
People who register for the scheme are given a contact card which enables staff at the Safe Places to identify who they are and who to contact. This is someone they know and trust, such as a parent/ carer, or support worker to get them help.
Hampshire County Council, through its learning disability grants programme, is funding local groups to develop Safer Places Schemes in other areas of Hampshire. The scheme is also working with the Winchester Community Safety Partnership and PCSOs.
Pictured; Steve's 9 Stockbridge Rd office will be part of the scheme
More information...
For more information about the project and launch contact the Safer Places Co-ordinator at Winchester Mencap on 01962 873608 or email saferplaces@winchestermencap.org.uk