Published on
15 May 2026
Safe Places scheme returns to support residents across the borough
Shops and businesses joining scheme to help people feel more confident going out independently
The Safe Places scheme is relaunching in Wokingham Borough this spring, led by Wokingham Borough Council in partnership with Optalis, a local social care provider, offering residents a network of trusted places to go if they need help.
Fourteen shops and businesses across the borough have signed up to the scheme so far, displaying a Safe Places sticker in their window to make them easy to recognise. More locations will be added on an ongoing basis.
Staff at Safe Places can help if someone is lost, feeling anxious or unsafe while out and about. Participating locations can offer a place to wait and staff can provide directions or help contact friends, family or a support service (including emergency services) on behalf of someone who needs support.
Cllr David Hare, executive member for adult services, health and wellbeing, said: "We're pleased to be relaunching Safe Places in partnership with Optalis Supported Employment Service and local businesses across the borough. The scheme is about making sure everyone feels safe and supported in our communities. It's a simple idea that can make a real difference to people's confidence and independence.
"The scheme is particularly valuable for anyone who may need extra support while out and about. I'm grateful to all the shops and businesses signing up - their involvement helps make Wokingham Borough a more inclusive and welcoming place for everyone."
How it works
When someone goes into a Safe Place and asks for help, a member of staff can provide directions if they're lost or confused, offer a place to wait until they feel better, or make a phone call to a trusted person or for support.
Staff have access to easy-read guidance with pictures and simple questions. These materials were developed with help from members of CLASP, Wokingham's learning disability self-advocacy group.
Debs Morrison, CEO of CLASP said: "We're delighted to see Safe Places relaunching in Wokingham Borough. CLASP members and the Learning Disability Partnership Board were involved in developing the materials, making sure they're clear and accessible. This scheme makes a real difference to people's confidence and independence when they're out in the community. It's great to see local businesses stepping up to be part of creating a more inclusive borough."
Supporting the community
Danny, a local resident involved in managing the scheme, said: "Being on Safe Places is a new experience. It will improve my confidence. By helping the community, I am probably putting a smile on their faces. I think it's a good thing to be raising awareness of disabilities across Wokingham. It encourages people to go into the community and brings relief as they know companies and businesses are there to help."
Safe Places across the borough
The fourteen Safe Places currently signed up are:
- Optalis Community Lives, Acorn Community Centre
- Arborfield Green Leisure Centre
- Ashby Carpets & Flooring
- Earley Town Council
- Loddon Valley Leisure Centre
- Optalis, Molly Millars Lane
- Optalis Community Lives, Woodford Park
- Ryeish Green Sports Hub
- Transform Housing & Support
- Bulmershe Leisure Centre
- Wokingham Leisure Centre, Carnival Pool
- The following libraries: Wokingham, Lower Earley and Woodley
Amy-Jayne Cheale, General Manager of Loddon Valley Leisure Centre, Arborfield Green Leisure Centre and Ryeish Green Sports Hub, said: "Being part of the Safe Places Scheme reflects our commitment to creating a welcoming, safe environment for anyone who needs it. Everyone deserves to feel secure in our community."
More venues will be added regularly. A full list and map showing all Safe Place locations is available on the Safe Places webpage.
Safe Places Card
Residents can carry a free Safe Places Card - a paper card that can be kept in a wallet or purse. The card makes it easy to show staff you need help and has space to write your name, two trusted contacts and their phone numbers, plus any important information.
Cards can be cut out from information leaflets. The information leaflets are available from Wokingham Borough Council reception at Shute End, Optalis Head Office, Wokingham Charity & Community Hub in Erftstadt Court off Denmark Street, and local libraries. Residents can also download and print your own card from the Wokingham Borough Safe Places webpage.
Find a Safe Place
Look for the Safe Places sticker in venue windows. The Safe Places App can also be used to quickly find the closest Safe Place or to plan ahead.
Businesses can get involved
Shops and businesses interested in becoming a Safe Place can email safeplacesscheme@wokingham.gov.uk. A member of the team will provide further details and support through the registration process.
