A new initiative to help disabled people feel more safe when out and about is being launched.
Keep Safe is a partnership scheme developed between Police Scotland and the ‘I am Me’ charity to raise awareness and increase reports of disability hate crime.
It works with a network of local shops, businesses and organisations to create Keep Safe places for disabled, elderly and vulnerable people to go to if they are lost, scared, need help or if they are a victim of crime.
Staff and volunteers from Circles Advocacy in Elgin are taking charge of the campaign in Moray, and will be visiting premises to offer further details of how they can take part in it.
A Keep Safe Place is highlighted by a poster and window sticker displaying the I am Me logo, and staff will be trained to assist them.
They would do this by offering them a seat, giving them some reassurance and a cup of tea or calling a carer or family member.
If the person is a victim of harassment/abuse or crime, then the staff member can contact someone who can help, or contact the police if necessary.
The initiative also provides Keep Safe cards for people who are disabled or otherwise vulnerable, which can hold information about their health, contact details of people who can help them and their communication needs.
The scheme is already running successfully in other local authority areas with more than 250 Keep Safe premises throughout Scotland.
To register, e-mail david.slessor@circlesnetwork.org.uk.
