BUSINESSES in Salisbury have got together to support a project that offers vulnerable people a safe place to go if they need help while out and about in the city centre.

The Safe Places project was first piloted in the city two years ago and following its success here and in Devizes, it is now set to be rolled out across the county.

The businesses and organisations involved display a Safe Place sticker to show they are a place vulnerable people can go to when they need support. There are about 33 premises involved so far, including Debenhams, the Cathedral Hotel and SWAN Advocacy.

The scheme is aimed at those with learning disabilities, people with Alzheimer’s and anyone who suddenly feels unwell or needs some assistance.

Angus Macpherson, Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) for Wiltshire and Swindon, joined others involved in the scheme, including Wiltshire Council members, for a tour of Salisbury on Friday to see how the project works.

He said: “Safe Places is part of the police and crime plan and is one of the things I said before I was elected that I wanted to see rolled out and supported. This is the first opportunity I’ve had to come and have a look at some of the businesses on board in Salisbury and I hope it continues to grow.”

The scheme was set up by the Safe Places Implementation Steering Group, which is made up of volunteers. Julie Locks, chair of the steering group, said: “We hope as it is rolled out that it will encourage people to go further afield as they feel safe.”

The group has received £7,000 from the PCC Innovation Fund, which will help create a tool kit to help other communities set up the project in their towns and villages.