Safe Spaces to Shield Women and Girls in Danger
Women, girls, and anyone feeling at risk can now find refuge in local shops thanks to a new Safe Space scheme launching in Warsop. Up to 25 businesses will get CCTV cameras and staff training to help anyone seeking protection.
Look out for the Safe Space signs in store windows — a clear signal that help is just inside if you need it.
Boosted Security Across Warsop
Warsop is also set for a security upgrade with new CCTV cameras, improved street lighting, and environmental tweaks aimed at boosting public confidence. Refuge point cameras will be installed at key locations, offering 24/7 surveillance. These smart columns let vulnerable people press a button to connect directly with the CCTV control room for immediate help.
The scheme is part of a larger package funded by £3m from the Safer Streets initiative, secured by Nottinghamshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner.
Police Praise New Safety Measures
“The training and cameras inside businesses will be an asset in helping women and girls have that extra security and safety net,” said Inspector Kylie Davies, District Commander for Mansfield.
“These spaces are not just for women and girls – anyone feeling unsafe can use the scheme and know help is at hand. Our partnership work with Safer Streets funding continues to make Mansfield and Warsop safer for all.”
More Safety Tools and Community Support
- 190 women will get free access to the Hollie Guard safety app – a lifesaver that sends location and audio/video to chosen contacts with one shake or tap of a phone.
- New automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) cameras will hunt down criminals on local roads.
- Youth work and diversion programs will tackle anti-social behaviour.
Police and Crime Commissioner Caroline Henry said: “This project zeroes in on violence against women and girls — a key part of our Make Notts Safe Plan. Safe Space is mainly for women and girls, but anyone needing help can find safety.
“Nobody should fear going out in public. These safety measures will make a big difference to how safe people feel in Warsop.”
Local Businesses Ready to Join In
Rachel Dunlop from Warsop Computers on High Street says she’s keen to get involved. “If fellow shop workers are looking out for people and working together, that’s got to be a good thing,” she said.
Councillor Marion Bradshaw, Portfolio Holder for Safer Communities at Mansfield District Council, added: “We want everyone to feel safe and supported. We’re working with police, schools, and charities to protect survivors of domestic abuse and empower local business workers to act confidently if they witness trouble.”
Warsop’s community spirit, she says, will help these plans succeed and improve quality of life for all.
