Local Shops Turn Safe Havens in New ‘Safe Spaces’ Scheme
Local businesses across Medway have teamed up to offer lifelines to anyone feeling unwell, lost, confused, or caught up in crime. They’re part of the new Safe Spaces scheme, meaning people can pop into participating shops for help — with staff ready to call emergency services if needed.
Spot the Safe Spaces – Look for the Window Stickers
Keep your eyes peeled for the bright window stickers that mark which businesses are part of the scheme. If you’re in trouble anywhere in town, just step inside and ask for help.
£190k Injection to Boost Safety in Medway Towns
The effort is backed by a hefty £190,000 fund secured in October 2021 from the Home Office’s Safer Streets Fund. The cash was fought for by Kent’s Police and Crime Commissioner Matthew Scott, who wanted to focus on making Rochester and Chatham safe havens — especially for women and girls.
- Personal safety gear handed out to locals and community groups
- Medway Street Pastors equipped with essentials like foil blankets and flip flops to assist night-time visitors
- Radios given to businesses for quick communication
Police Praise Scheme Boosting Night-Time Safety
District Commander Chief Inspector Shona Lowndes said: “This funding has allowed Kent Police and its partners to put extra measures in place to safeguard residents and visitors. Our officers are out regularly patrolling the night-time economy, making sure our streets stay vibrant and safe. The Safe Spaces Scheme means anyone in need can enter a local shop, feel secure, and get the help they require.”
This round of funding also paid for cutting back overgrown bushes for better street lighting, removing rubbish and graffiti, plus community litter picks in local parks.
Leaders Back Community Approach to Crime
Police Commissioner Matthew Scott said: “I’m proud we secured funding for this fantastic Safer Streets Project. Beyond more patrols, local shops now provide safe refuges for vulnerable people. It’s a real community partnership.”
Medway Council’s Cllr Adrian Gulvin added: “Medway is already a safe area to live, work and visit. The Safe Spaces initiative makes Rochester even safer. Thanks to the businesses signing up and working with Kent Police, we’re keeping our towns welcoming and protected.”
