A pioneering safe space scheme has now launched across Cheshire West and Chester.

The 'You're Safe Here' scheme ensures venues are equipped with the skills, knowledge and resources to support vulnerable people if they feel unsafe or have been a victim of crime.

Accredited 'You're Safe Here' staff are trained and issued with guidance on how to manage a variety of often complex situations which they may come across when working.

This includes hate crime, domestic abuse, assaults, or lost children, so that they can protect people from further harm, encourage timely reporting, and signpost to services which can provide longer term help and support.

Accredited venues are clearly identifiable by branded window stickers and other materials issued to them.

Fifteen venues have received their accreditation in Chester so far, including Storyhouse, Chester Racecourse, and Chester Cathedral.

"At Storyhouse, we are proud to be part of the 'You're Safe Here' initiative," said Suzie Henderson, creative director at Storyhouse, one of the first venues to be accredited.

"Ensuring that everyone who walks through our doors feels safe, valued, and supported is a core part of our commitment to inclusivity.

"This accreditation not only equips our team to respond to complex situations but also reinforces that Storyhouse and spaces like it are places where everyone can come together, feel protected, and find the support they need when they need it most."

The scheme was originally developed by LCR Pride Foundation in response to a spate of homophobic hate crimes in Liverpool in 2021.

It has since been expanded to cover a broad range of issues.

For the first time, the initiative has expanded outside of the Liverpool City Region so that across both areas there have now been more than 1,000 staff from over 100 venues trained.

Amanda Hilton, chair of the Board of LCR Pride Foundation, added: "It is more than simply an accreditation scheme.

"Venues that take part show their commitment to inclusivity and ensuring that all their customers can have peace of mind when they visit. After all, everyone deserves to feel safe when they are out and about."

The scheme managed by LCR Pride Foundation is delivered in partnership with Cheshire West and Chester Council, the Cheshire Police and Crime Commissioner, and Cheshire Police as part of their combined commitment to support communities and businesses in the daytime and nighttime economy.

"I am proud to have supported and provided funding for this crucial scheme and I look forward to seeing it in practice," said Dan Price, Cheshire Police and Crime Commissioner.

"Ensuring there are easily identifiable safe spaces with trained staff, for people to go to in their hour of need is key not only to tackling crime, but supporting those who may have witnessed crime or need some additional support."

For more information on the scheme, you can visit the website here.