Safe spaces scheme to help young people launched in Walsall

Children and young people can now visit registered safe spaces in Walsall if they are worried, upset or need help whilst out and about.

Walsall Council and West Midlands Police have launched a new, safe spaces initiative following calls from young people to make the town feel and be a safer place.

14 venues taking part in the scheme have received specialist training, ensuring staff are prepared to offer practical help and immediate support to young people whenever it’s needed.

Councillor Mark Statham, Portfolio Holder for Children’s, Families and Lifelong Learning at Walsall Council, said, “We’re proud to deliver on a commitment to our young people by launching this scheme.

"This is something young people have asked us for, and it’s their voices who have helped shape and deliver this. Safety is one of, if not, the biggest concern of our young people, and it’s schemes like this which will hopefully help combat these fears.”

Councillor Adam Hicken, Portfolio Holder for Enforcement and Safe Communities at Walsall Council added, “Safe spaces are about reassurance and support for children and young people when they need it most.

"Whether they feel unsafe, have lost their bus ticket or simply need to charge their phone to contact a parent or carer, these spaces are there to help.” 

Each safe space will be clearly identifiable by a distinctive window sticker, designed in collaboration with young people to ensure it is eye-catching and recognisable to them. Young people can expect to be greeted by a welcoming, friendly face, who can offer access to practical essentials like the use of chargers, power banks, and first aid kits.

Registered safe spaces include Walsall’s bus station, The Link, Legacy Church and all council-run venues such as Our Place, Lichfield Street Library Hub and the Gala swimming and fitness centre. 

Sergeant Alex Backrath responsible for the local neighbourhood policing team, said: “Walsall Police are committed to making sure everyone feels safe in the borough, and these designated safe spaces will serve as a sanctuary for young people whenever they need it.

“We can already see what a positive impact the safe spaces are having by looking at ‘Our Place’ youth hub. It’s helping us to get young people off the street and reducing anti-social behaviour as a result.”

The rollout of safe spaces is an active step forward in the council’s vision to make Walsall a child-friendly borough by 2040. In August this year, the council held its second annual youth summit, bringing together over 100 young people to share their ideas and priorities for creating a safer Walsall.

More information about the scheme can be found on the council’s website.

Business can express their interest in becoming a Safe Space by contacting youthofferparticipation@walsall.gov.uk.